Pennsylvania’s Freedom Movement: A Microcosm of America’s Future
Pennsylvania, long considered a bellwether state in the United States, played a pivotal role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of 2024. For Charles Mitchell, a visionary leader and senior fellow at the Commonwealth Foundation, Pennsylvania represents more than just a swing state; it’s a microcosm of the broader American experience.
Mitchell’s insights reveal why Pennsylvania’s transformation is a model for other states and how the principles of freedom, opportunity, and human flourishing can take root in even the toughest environments. His story is one of perseverance, collaboration, and a belief in the power of grassroots action to create lasting change.
Pennsylvania: The Keystone of American Values
Mitchell describes Pennsylvania as a microcosm of the United States—a state with urban centers, small towns, rural areas, and extraordinary diversity. This diversity makes it an ideal testing ground for ideas and policies that can scale nationwide.
“Pennsylvania is a laboratory for America,” says Mitchell. “If values like freedom, opportunity, and human flourishing can ascend here, they can ascend anywhere.”
The state’s recent elections reflect years of underlying cultural and economic shifts. While the presidential race drew headlines, Mitchell points to other key victories that signal a broader movement. From Congressional flips to statewide wins, the results underscore a rejection of policies that have failed communities for decades.
Building a Freedom Movement
Mitchell’s return to Pennsylvania in 2010 marked the beginning of a decade-long effort to build what he calls a “Freedom Movement.” This network of organizations and individuals is dedicated to advancing the principles of limited government, educational opportunity, and economic freedom.
“When I moved back, Pennsylvania didn’t have a vibrant Freedom Movement,” Mitchell explains. “Now, it’s a model for how civil society can organize to promote ideas that improve lives.”
This movement operates on multiple fronts:
- Policy Advocacy: The Commonwealth Foundation develops and promotes policies that empower individuals and reduce government overreach.
- Election Engagement: Groups like Commonwealth Partners ensure that leaders who support these principles are elected to office.
- Community Initiatives: Mitchell emphasizes the importance of local efforts, such as supporting clergy in urban areas who advocate for educational choice.
Rejecting Failed Policies
Mitchell argues that the Freedom Movement’s success stems from a clear contrast between effective, freedom-based policies and the failures of centralized, left-leaning governance.
“In Pennsylvania’s inner cities, decades of one-party rule and union-dominated policies have left schools in disrepair,” he says. “People are waking up to the alternative—school choice and community-driven solutions.”
This awakening isn’t confined to urban areas. Rural communities and suburbs, burdened by inflation and economic stagnation, are also seeking better answers. “Pennsylvanians have given failed policies a chance, and they’ve seen the results,” Mitchell adds. “Now they’re ready for something better.”
Lessons from Pennsylvania for America
Mitchell’s work in Pennsylvania offers valuable lessons for other states. He stresses the importance of local action, collaboration, and persistence in building movements that drive real change.
- Act Locally: “Most decisions affecting our lives are made at the state and local levels,” Mitchell explains. He encourages others to focus on their own communities rather than waiting for solutions from Washington, D.C.
- Collaborate for Impact: Mitchell credits the Freedom Movement’s success to strong coalitions. “You can’t do it alone,” he says. “Find people who share your values and work together to create change.”
- Think Long-Term: While election results matter, Mitchell emphasizes the importance of sustained effort. “The most important day in a campaign isn’t Election Day—it’s the day after,” he says. “That’s when the real work begins.”
A Call to Action
Mitchell’s journey is a testament to the power of conviction and collaboration. He urges others to take bold action, even in challenging environments. “If our values can ascend in Pennsylvania, they can ascend anywhere,” he says.
For those inspired to follow in his footsteps, Mitchell offers simple yet powerful advice: “Don’t go it alone. Build coalitions, act locally, and never lose sight of the bigger picture.”
Conclusion
Charles Mitchell’s leadership in Pennsylvania demonstrates that transformative change is possible through grassroots action and a commitment to foundational principles. By building a Freedom Movement, he has helped create a model for others to replicate in states across the nation.
Pennsylvania’s story is one of hope, perseverance, and the enduring belief that freedom and opportunity can prevail, even in the toughest circumstances. As Mitchell reminds us, the work is far from over—but the possibilities are endless.
