As rising prices and increasing reliance on food pantries unsettle supporters of President Donald Trump in Clair County, Michigan, discontent is brewing within this key swing state. Once a bastion of Trump’s support, residents now express doubts about their loyalty as economic conditions worsen.
Many who backed Trump in the 2024 election are voicing their frustrations over the soaring costs of living. According to a report by Reuters, local voters are contemplating a change in their voting habits as they face significant financial challenges.
Bob Benjamin, a retired auto worker and long-time Trump supporter, articulated this sentiment. He has recently turned to a local food pantry to help stretch his budget. “I would probably vote the way the conditions are going,” he said, reflecting on how he might approach the 2028 election. “If [Trump is] doing good, if you can see it coming out of a hole, then I give it two more years. But if it’s starting to go back down again, well maybe we need a little change.”
Trump’s campaign heavily focused on promises to reduce prices for American families, vowing to “bring down the prices of all goods” starting from his first day in office. However, since he took office in January 2025, prices have generally increased. Reports indicate that food prices rose by 2.1% between January and November of that year. Energy costs have also surged, climbing nearly 10% in just the first five months of 2025. This surge has been attributed, in part, to the rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence data centers, which demand substantial energy resources and often receive subsidies from local governments.
Another resident, Taylor Ludwig, a 35-year-old mother of three, shared her struggles as well. Like Benjamin, she has found herself relying on food pantries to meet her family’s needs. When asked about her intentions for the next presidential election, Ludwig was uncertain about her support for the Republican candidate. “I’m not just gonna follow along somebody like a sheep,” she stated. “I will follow you until I know it’s not OK to.”
The situation in Clair County underscores a broader trend among Trump supporters in significant swing states. As inflation impacts everyday expenses, voters are increasingly evaluating their options. With economic conditions becoming a focal point for many, it remains to be seen how these sentiments will influence future elections.
The changing attitudes among Trump’s base highlight the complexities of voter loyalty and the challenges of fulfilling campaign promises in the face of economic hardship. As the 2028 election approaches, the economic landscape will likely play a crucial role in shaping the decisions of voters across the country.
