Fuel, fertilizer costs strain US farmers’ support for Trump

Farmers are struggling with rising fuel and fertilizer costs, which are putting strain on their support for President Donald Trump's Republican Party. Despite this, many farmers still plan to back the Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections. The cost of diesel has surged more than 67 percent since February, while some fertilizers have doubled in price.

This comes amid a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, which is causing global energy and fertilizer supply issues. Ohio, where many farmers reside, is a battleground for crucial Senate and House races, despite Trump's double-digit win in the state in 2024. Farmers are growing "tense" and feeling that their expectations have not been met, but they still believe in the "Make America Great Again" slogan.

Joe Logan, interim president of the Ohio Farmers Union, noted that many farmers are "flailing away" and deeply concerned about fuel costs. The conflict with Iran is just the latest blow to an already struggling farming community, which has faced trade wars with China and low crop prices. Logan estimates that about 40 percent of US soybeans are exported, with China traditionally being a key buyer, but tariffs have caused significant losses for US agriculture exports.

The situation is expected to worsen as Canada, a major supplier of potash fertilizer, remains in conflict with the United States. Despite the challenges, many farmers plan to stay the course and vote for Republicans, with only a small portion considering staying home.