Donald J. Trump won the 2024 election on a pledge to make America more affordable, telling NBC News he won 'on groceries.' But as midterms approach, grocery prices are climbing—driven by the Iran war, which has surged diesel and gasoline costs and made shipping more expensive. Consumer prices are up 3.7 percent year-over-year, with food costs rising 2.5 percent. Specific categories seeing sharp increases include fruits and vegetables (up 3.7 percent), nonalcoholic beverages and materials (up 3.8 percent), and cereals and bakery products (up 2.1 percent). The cost increases pose an intensifying problem for Republican candidates, with some distancing from Trump and his policies.
In interviews across Iowa, Ohio, Maine, and Michigan, Trump voters expressed mixed reactions. Jessy Hakizimana, a 44-year-old refugee and excavating company owner in Indianola, Iowa, said price increases changed his shopping habits—he now uses coupons—leading him to question his 2024 vote. He remains open to either party in 2028 and is leaning toward Republican candidate Ashley Hinson in the Iowa Senate race.
Carolyn Calcutt, a 65-year-old retired teacher from Alpine Township, Michigan, remains hopeful about the economy and praised Trump’s handling, citing long-term benefits from the Iran war and tariff policies. Angel Hartmier, a 36-year-old single mother in New Lebanon, Ohio, expressed disappointment, saying she hoped for lower prices but feels things 'went sideways.' Aaron Huizenga, a 45-year-old I.T. professional in Zeeland, Michigan, acknowledges struggles but prioritizes cultural issues over economics.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing