GETTYSBURG, Pa. ― Gettysburg is a pivotal landmark in America’s democratic history. During a fierce three-day battle in 1863, the nation teetered on the brink of disaster, marking a crucial moment in the Civil War. As one presidential hopeful remarked, “Gettysburg, wow.”

On a recent clear morning, Paul Faust visited the grand memorial dedicated to the 34,530 soldiers from Pennsylvania who fought bravely during that significant battle over 160 years ago. He carried with him a notebook filled with the names of his ancestors who participated in the conflict, along with a digital camera to capture images of the bronze plaques surrounding the impressive 110-foot-tall granite monument, the largest at the national military park, sitting atop Seminary Ridge.

He understood the significance of the battle.

The nation’s fate hung in the balance on the fields of Gettysburg.

Today, a different battle is being fought over the presidential election, with candidates on both sides ― Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris ― framing it as critical for the future of America.

Faust, a vibrant 81-year-old who has done a bit of everything in his career, holds Trump responsible for worsening the country’s divisions, labeling him “a traitor.”

While he had plenty more to express ― which we will explore later ― in that moment, he was focused on uncovering the stories of his ancestors who fought at Gettysburg, a search he began about 15 years ago through ancestry.com.

Gettysburg reflects a time when the nation was fractured over slavery, embroiled in a fierce internal conflict.

This ongoing struggle proves that the battle remains unresolved.

The results will be determined not on the hills of southern Pennsylvania, but inside the voting booths throughout the state.

Investigating ‘Pennsyltucky’

The candidate who secures Pennsylvania may have a solid chance of entering the White House.

While the outcome may hinge on the suburbs of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh where the majority of residents live, central Pennsylvania plays a crucial role. This area is traditionally conservative, with minor liberal pockets in the cities; however, the votes from small business owners and churchgoers in the central part of the state—the region often disparagingly referred to as “Pennsyltucky”—can greatly impact a state where outcomes may be determined by a mere handful of votes.

The York Daily Record, a partner of the YSL News Network, assessed the mood in this central region of Pennsylvania—traveling along Route 30, known as the Lincoln Highway, from Coatesville to Chambersburg—to gather opinions from voters in what some call “flyover country,” who may not be heavily influenced by the political narratives from cable news or questionable online sources.

‘It’s been chaotic’

Jean Chmiel, who has been running the counter at Stover’s News on Third Street in Columbia, responded with a sigh, “Oh, boy.”

When asked about her views on the 2024 presidential race, Chmiel hesitated, acknowledging, “This is Trump territory,” while referencing her town of 10,000 residents located on the east bank of the Susquehanna River.

However, the situation is more complex. Having worked at Stover’s, a local institution since 1886, for the last 14 years, she has come to know a multitude of regular customers who stop by each morning for coffee and their newspapers. The unpredictable nature of this year’s election has left her astonished, with new developments seemingly emerging weekly in a narrative more convoluted than some of the winding roads around her hometown.

“It’s been crazy,” she expressed.

In Columbia, she remarked, Harris supporters are like four-leaf clovers—very rare. She added that she hadn’t really followed Harris until after Biden exited the race. “I just haven’t seen her do anything,” she commented. “It’s like she suddenly appeared like Oprah.”

Chmiel believes that Democrats didn’t truly vote for Harris to be the party’s nominee. “All the people who supported Biden didn’t get their say,” she claimed. “They always talk about democracy. But that’s not democracy.”

James Stover, her boss, is the dynamic fifth-generation owner of the store. He credits its endurance to the foundations built by previous generations, making the newsstand a cornerstone of the community. He pays tribute to his father, also named James, who at 80 still makes regular visits.

Every day starts with a warm welcome to customers.

Reflecting on the upcoming election, Stover expressed that homelessness and economic concerns are prevalent in Columbia. He mentioned the Columbia Presbyterian Church located at Fourth and Locust streets, which does a commendable job aiding the homeless by providing meals and shelter, although he feels the situation continues to deteriorate.

“In my childhood, we referred to them as ‘bums,’” he said. “Now, we see many younger individuals. I believe addiction to drugs, especially heroin, is a significant contributor to the problem.”

Stover is also troubled by economic issues, particularly inflation. “A while ago,” he noted, “we sold candy bars for two for a dollar, and now they cost $1.75 each.” He has seen customers react to these rising prices, but asserts that with increasing costs, he has no choice but to mark up prices. “We aren’t making a larger profit; costs have skyrocketed. We’ve seen price hikes every couple of months, and I don’t foresee stabilization anytime soon.”

This is why he backs Trump, believing that the former president would positively impact both the national and local economies. Stover dismisses concerns regarding Trump’s felony charges, past civil penalties related to sexual abuse, business fraud, and ongoing investigations related to the 2020 election results. “Those were all brought by Democrats,” he argued.

Not everyone in Columbia, nor in Stover’s establishment, shares his views. Diane Divit, a 70-year-old native of the town and a clerk, preferred to keep her support private; however, Stover interjected, claiming, “She’s a Kamala fan.”

Divit stood her ground, stating, “It’s been chaotic. So much has happened in such a short time.”

‘The worst I’ve ever experienced’

Ken Rowe, an 83-year-old retired nursing assistant, meets a few friends every Monday morning to enjoy bowling at a large venue called Leisure Lanes, located off the Lincoln Highway between Mountville and Lancaster. He reported having an average score of around 140, and during our chat, he paused to score a strike.

“In all my years of voting,” he remarked, “this is the worst situation I’ve faced. Honestly, I’m not sure if I’ll even cast a ballot. I’m not prepared for a female president, and the other candidate seems self-centered.”

One of his fellow bowlers, a 91-year-old retired nurse, reacted with disapproval to his remarks and shot him a disapproving glance before she skillfully converted a split for a spare. She shared that her average score is 129.

Rowe dismissed any tension and replied, “Why can’t they focus on the actions they’re proposing instead of attacking each other?”

His unnamed companion, however, stated firmly, “I identify as a Republican, but there’s absolutely no way I would vote for someone who has felony convictions. To me, he is solely defined by those convictions.”

Concerns about ‘Trump reviving racism’

Larry Rowe was seated outside his barber shop on West King Street in Lancaster, where business has been sluggish on Monday mornings. He reminisced about the time when his shop was bustling with customers; now, it’s generally quiet, and the barbers employed there often leave after lunch due to lack of business.

It’s challenging, he noted.

Inflation has deeply impacted small businesses. He shared that haircuts used to cost about ten dollars, including the tip. Now, some places—though not his—charge as much as $50 or $60 for a basic cut, excluding tips. “That’s quite a hit for many folks,” he commented. “It’s really tough. Everyday people are trying to make ends meet.”

Rowe expressed mixed feelings. Though he believes Trump might be a better fit for the economy, he has doubts about the former president.

He questioned Harris’ public presence saying, “Where has she been while common folks struggle day-to-day?”

As I take on the role of president, I don’t quite feel it. However, I can recall my experiences with racism.”

From his viewpoint, he believes that Trump would reignite what he sees as a recent wave of racism, resulting in police misconduct towards minority communities, creating genuine anxiety among residents.

“The major concern is that Trump might reintroduce the issue of racism,” Rowe, 55, mentioned while wearing a black Los Angeles Dodgers cap. “Most people aren’t thrilled with either candidate. I share that sentiment. From my view, is Trump superior, or is Kamala better? I can’t decide.”

He remains undecided about his vote but believes the forthcoming weeks will be pivotal for Trump.

“I think this could prove troublesome for Trump,” he stated. “Facing off against a Black woman — and I say this neutrally — a highly intelligent Black woman, she’s likely to challenge him fiercely.”

He questions if Trump can handle a debate with Harris “without losing composure.”

“It wouldn’t shock me if he struggled,” Lowe remarked, pointing out Trump’s tendency to “lose it” occasionally.

He pointed out that Trump often veers off-topic, indulging in conspiracy theories and other bizarre claims. “We’ve all been aware of Trump’s eccentric history,” he said. “What did you expect? We bought into that.”

Ultimately, he believes the political race doesn’t hold much weight.

“If you can’t afford your bills,” he concluded, “who really cares about who is in office?”

‘A deeply religious region’

The Route 30 Diner, located on Route 30 in Ronks, a small rural community east of Lancaster, is a classic diner, one of the old-school stainless-steel establishments that line the historic route. A faded neon sign hanging above the entrance claims the diner is air-conditioned.

Inside, it feels warm and welcoming—a favored spot for locals enjoying breakfast and catching up over eggs and pancakes at the long counter opposite rows of booths overlooking the two-lane road. A shelf lining the ceiling displays photos of local service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in wars dating back to World War I.

On a recent Monday, Nathan Huyard was at his usual spot at the counter, sipping coffee and waiting for his meal. A frequent visitor since childhood, he reminisced about the times he and his friends would stop by at 2 a.m. for pancakes after a night out.

Huyard, a stout man with a neat haircut, voted for Trump in both 2016 and 2020, and he plans to do so again.

“I identify as conservative,” he remarked. “This region of Lancaster County holds strong conservative views.”

As a born-again Christian, he expresses that Trump mirrors his beliefs. “Abortion is a crucial subject for me,” he stated. “We prioritize the sanctity of life.”

The highway is scattered with churches ranging from Mennonite to a variety of traditional Methodist or Baptist congregations and numerous independent evangelical ones.

“This is a highly religious community,” Huyard declared.

He and his family manage a bed-and-breakfast on an adjacent farm that his wife’s family has operated for 25 years, leasing out 20 acres to a neighboring Amish farmer. Many of their guests come from afar, drawn to Lancaster County to experience shows at the Sight & Sound Theater, an impressive venue showcasing biblical stories.

His support for Trump remains steadfast. He doesn’t feel the need to compromise on this given Trump’s actions or perceived shortcomings.

“As a born-again Christian, I uphold high moral standards,” Huyard explained. “Although he hasn’t always aligned with my values, I believe in forgiveness, grace, and mercy—Trump deserves that as well.”

Politics and business shouldn’t mix

Interestingly, patrons at various bars along Route 30 were reluctant to discuss political matters. A bartender at Owen’s Place, found west of Coatesville in rural Chester County, remarked, “We avoid discussing politics here,” adding, “Religion is off the table too.”

Some business owners were also cautious about expressing their political views for fear of alienating half their customers.

In Abbottstown, known as “The Gateway to Adams County” along Route 30, Gina Wilson, a shy and modest 28-year-old, recently launched a coffee shop called Coffee & Crumbs in the town square’s roundabout.

Jerry Parrish, the father who owns the building at the northeast corner of the square, represents the business.

The front of the building displayed a sign indicating its grand opening. The coffee shop, which has been operational for just a week, is already experiencing a surge in customers. Parrish shared that on one occasion last week, the line for coffee, muffins, doughnuts, bagels, and cookies stretched around the room and outside to the parking lot.

“Everybody loves coffee and doughnuts,” Parrish remarked.

However, he noted that not all local business owners are comfortable sharing their political opinions.

Parrish is aware of this firsthand. He owns Lincoln Speedway, a respected local dirt-track venue located at the base of Pigeon Hills, just south of town. He took over the speedway after selling his body shop, Premier Auto Works, situated on the main street, as a way to ease into retirement. His plans include spending summers at the speedway during its 30-race season and winters in Florida. Currently, he expressed a preference for running the coffee shop, stating, “Everyone who walks in is cheerful because they’re getting coffee. At the body shop, not everyone is happy; their car is damaged.”

When asked about the presidential campaign, he said, “I’m not sure I want to go there. I have strong opinions, but I want to stay out of it.”

He has his reasons. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lincoln Speedway, along with many other businesses, had to shut down. He attempted to stay partially operational by adjusting seating arrangements in the stands to maintain social distancing. Unfortunately, the state rejected his efforts and mandated a complete closure. Parrish defied the order, trying to keep the speedway open.

A visit from Doug Mastriano, the Republican state senator from Franklin County, complicated matters. Mastriano, a Trump supporter running for governor on a platform that opposed the state’s shutdowns, spontaneously campaigned at the speedway, much to Parrish’s dismay.

“Once he got the microphone,” Parrish remembered, “things got heated. We faced backlash for it.”

On another occasion, a spectator displayed a Trump banner at the suites overlooking the stands. “Someone snuck it in and tied it up there,” Parrish explained. “I was unaware until someone informed me.”

This upset Parrish. “We don’t mix politics with our businesses, whether at the speedway or here,” he said of the coffee shop. “In business, you need to steer clear of political issues, or you risk alienating customers. I’ve seen the negative impact it can have (at the speedway). I strive to ensure everyone feels welcome. Once the election is over, you accept the outcome and move forward.”

‘You got to take him as he comes’

Johan Mendez runs Blendz Barber Shop, located on the east side of Chambersburg in a flatiron-shaped building where the Lincoln Highway meets East Queen Street. A memorial honoring the town’s World War I veterans sits on the grassy area in front of the old fire station.

Mendez admitted that he hasn’t been closely following the election. He isn’t well-versed on the complexities and developments surrounding this unprecedented presidential race.

He mentioned leaning towards Trump, stating, “Having a woman president could be interesting, but we’ve already experienced Trump’s presidency, and I think he performed well.”

While speaking, he trimmed his own hair with clippers while looking in the mirror, commenting, “It’s a bit tricky.”

He also revealed some ambivalence regarding Trump. “It’s all about balance,” he explained. “He isn’t perfect. The negative aspects of him – he’s not outright racist, but he has his views. He has both good and bad traits. But you have to take him as he is.”

‘I would never vote for a coward and a traitor’

Back in Gettysburg, Paul Faust has a rich heritage, tracing his ancestry back to immigrants who arrived before the establishment of the United States. The first Faust came to Philadelphia from Germany in 1733, while other relatives settled in Jamestown, Virginia, in 1611. He boasts lineage that includes figures like Mark Twain and Queen Elizabeth and has traced his ancestry back to 800 A.D. with a clan known as Albrecht, which became Americanized to Albright. He even remembers a family friend named Shorty Albright and wonders if they were related.

Faust, like many Americans, has been captivated by Gettysburg. It’s hard to walk the battlefield without imagining the more than 50,000 soldiers who were either killed or wounded there. He has visited the site many times since his childhood and has identified 84 ancestors who fought in the battle, ranging in age from 16 to over 60.

He deeply respects the sacrifices made by those in his family and all soldiers who gave their lives to preserve the nation.

This commitment is one reason he is passionately invested in the 2024 election, viewing it as yet another delicate test of America’s democracy.

“Firstly,” he stated, “I would never support a coward and traitor like Trump. My vote is not based on party allegiance; I choose who I believe will perform best. It doesn’t matter who they are. However, my disdain for Donald Trump is intense. He’s a traitor.”

As a history enthusiast, he finds the lineage of Trump unimpressive – an illustration, in his opinion, of the saying that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

He shared details about Trump’s grandfather, Friedrich, who migrated to North America in 1885 in search of wealth during the Klondike gold rush. According to him, as evidenced by reports from CNN and other media, Trump’s grandfather didn’t actually seek gold; instead, he operated a brothel to assist gold prospectors, using the earnings to invest in real estate in New York. In 1905, it was reported that Friedrich was banned from Germany for evading mandatory military service. “The history runs deep,” Faust remarked.

He remarked, “He’s a con artist, much like P.T. Barnum. We understand who he is.”

His perspective stands in contrast to that of many voters in Southcentral Pennsylvania, often labeled as Trump Country. However, Faust pointed out, “Didn’t he lose the state during the previous election? So, you’re not really in Trump Country.”

Columnist and reporter Mike Argento has been part of the York Daily Record team since 1982. Contact him at mike@ydr.com.