The always fascinating world of Philadelphia tribal Democratic and SE Pa politics.

It’s called the Pennsylvania Convention Center – and, if Gov. Rendell gets his way, it may soon live up to its name.

Five years ago, political maneuvering in Harrisburg tipped the balance of power at the building – on hiring, contracting and other decisions – away from the governor and mayor, and into the hands of Philadelphia’s Republican-dominated suburbs.

Now Rendell, a Democrat in his final term, is moving unabashedly to restore the state’s authority in running the mammoth center.

And he’s doing so aided by the biggest of sticks: the $700 million that the state committed for expansion.