Trump tried to make an ally out of fishermen. Some have started to turn on him

John Evich, a commercial fisherman in Washington and Alaska, has supported President Donald Trump in three consecutive elections, believing he would advocate for his industry. However, Evich is now disillusioned with the elevated costs of operating his business. Rising fuel prices, trade disputes with Canada, and regulatory cutbacks have taken a toll on his livelihood. Evich stated, "If somebody came along that was going to do a better job, I would vote for them in a heartbeat."

This sentiment mirrors the concerns of many fishermen in the U.S. seafood industry. Alaska fisherman Linda Behnken echoed Evich's sentiment, pointing out that "Having those costs be so much higher this year has really undermined the viability of some of our fisheries."

Trump's administration has attempted to secure the support of fishermen through various measures during his presidency, including expanding fishing territory, implementing aggressive trade policies, and reducing regulations on marine environments. However, recent actions, such as cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) responsible for regulating fisheries, have hampered the industry's responsiveness to their needs.

Staff reductions have led to a decrease in weather balloons used for data collection, impacting the industry's ability to gather crucial information.

Fuel costs have also skyrocketed during Iran's ongoing war, with diesel fuel prices surpassing $6 per gallon, up from under $4 per gallon a year earlier. This surge in fuel prices poses a significant burden for a diesel-dependent industry. Additionally, the trade war with Canada has further complicated the American seafood industry's relationship with Canada, a country with which it has historically had significant ties.

Despite these challenges, Trump continues to pursue industry-friendly policies, such as the promise made in September to reduce more regulatory burdens in response to a 2025 executive order. However, the fishing industry in key states like Alaska, Washington, and Maine, which are crucial for Trump's political prospects in the upcoming midterms, may be losing confidence in the administration. Evich expressed his desire for a better future for his family and country, hoping for a change.