The announcement that U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., will make a stop at Wheeling’s Capitol Theatre on his national speaking tour is just the latest time that a national political figure has surmised that the Friendly City is an important place to visit.

Future and sitting presidents have been visiting Ohio County since George Washington saw Wheeling Creek in 1770. President Donald Trump has been to Wheeling twice, in 2018 and 2019. Then-President George W. Bush made stops in 2004 and 2006.

Such visits haven’t been limited to presidents. Then-Vice President Dick Cheney came to town in 2004. Then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo came to Wheeling for a speech in 2022.

All of this shows that, regardless of political ideology, those in the national realm look at Wheeling as an important area to visit. When those prominent figures want to learn about the concerns of everyday America, Wheeling and the Ohio Valley are must-stop sites.

Sanders has two more events in West Virginia ­– Mingo County and Charleston. While West Virginians often feel overlooked on the national level, it cannot be said that Wheeling is pushed to the side. It’s influence and significance won’t allow it.