Iowa seems to be a sort of bellwether state for that region. I have always considered Illinois to be Upper Midwest, not part of the NE "rust belt". Downstate Illinois is largely rural and agricultural, as is my county. Southern Illinois is considered to be that southernmost tip next to KY and TN generally from a line east from St Louis, to the south, part of the Mid South.
Iowa, Illinois and Indiana have farming in common, and we all think similarly about politics.
What an extensive and thorough analysis ( what you are known for) that is perfect for any honest reader.
Iowa seems to be a sort of bellwether state for that region. I have always considered Illinois to be Upper Midwest, not part of the NE "rust belt". Downstate Illinois is largely rural and agricultural, as is my county. Southern Illinois is considered to be that southernmost tip next to KY and TN generally from a line east from St Louis, to the south, part of the Mid South.
Iowa, Illinois and Indiana have farming in common, and we all think similarly about politics.