Are Urban Issues Being Ignored?

With the Pennsylvania primary coming up on April 22, you would think that the presidential candidates would be focusing on urban issues. Pennsylvania has 14 metropolitan areas, the ABE area being one of them, and more than 80% of Pennsylvanians live in those areas. Is it just assumed that the cities will vote Democratic, or is it because more voters live in the suburbs? Is it because urban issues are being overshadowed by the economy and Iraq? Obama lives in the city of Chicago and was a former community organizer, Hillary Clinton represents New York City. They should have some good ideas, and I'm sure they do, but they are not talking much about them. American cities drive the national economy, attract business and tourists. I believe it is important for our cities to thrive. Speaking of tourists, I've heard our mayor even has plans to attract tourists to Allentown by opening a new downtown "boutique hotel." C'est tres chic! ;}

Some important urban issues include crime, city revitalization (this is where the arts can help), crumbling infrastructure, underperforming schools (another place the arts can help), early childhood education, programs for at-risk youth (this is another area where the arts can help), poverty, housing, mass transit, did I mention crime? Pretty important stuff if you ask me.

The candidates like to talk about energy independence and dealing with greenhouse gases. Many of their ideas include making cities more livable for families, and better transit (high-speed rail for example), yet the suburban van driving moms and SUV dads seem to dominate the campaign scene.

I think in order to move the country forward the candidates need to talk about the real issues confronting our cities. How about starting with New Orleans? Remember them?

UPDATE: I just read at Mcall.com that the deal fell through and the Americus will not become a "boutique hotel" after all. Quel dommage!

Photo is a Lego sculpture that is supposed to symbolize the rebuilding of New Orleans