Trump Insists He’s Lowered Costs in North Carolina, but Residents Feel the Squeeze
APPresident Donald Trump VISITS ROCKY MOUNT, N.C.: After working 22 consecutive days as a technician at an engine plant, Daijah Bryant was finally ready to tackle her overdue Christmas shopping. Pushing her cart out of a local Walmart, she filled her sedan’s backseat with gifts. Yet, despite the potential joy they would bring to friends and family, the 26-year-old feels the weight of financial pressures.
– Daijah’s Perspective: “Having to pay bills and rent while trying to do Christmas at the same time is very, very hard,” she expressed with frustration.
As President Trump prepared for his Friday evening appearance in Rocky Mount, many residents articulated a pervasive economic squeeze that seems nearly inescapable. This sentiment cuts across political lines in a town divided between two largely rural and economically challenged counties. While some express cautious optimism about potential relief, others remain skeptical.
Economic Concerns in Rocky Mount
Trump’s visit marked his second event this month promoting his economic policies ahead of a pivotal midterm election. Like his earlier stop in Pennsylvania, Rocky Mount is located in a U.S. House district known for its competitiveness. This year, a Republican-led redistricting reshaped the boundaries in Trump’s favor, part of a broader GOP strategy to hold onto congressional control.
– Resident Sentiments: Financial strains, characterized by soaring costs of groceries, housing, and utilities, dominate the concerns of Rocky Mount’s approximately 54,000 residents. A significant number feel disillusioned about the economy, consistently rating it poorly in polls.
Despite the grim outlook from residents, Trump proclaimed that relief is on the horizon, attributing any economic distress solely to Democratic President Joe Biden. He championed various initiatives he claims will positively impact Americans’ wallets:
– Revenue Generation: Boosting billions through tariffs.
– Pharmaceutical Reform: Pressuring major drug companies to lower prices on specific medications.
– Military Benefits: A $1776 “warrior dividend” included in a recent tax bill aimed at U.S. troops.
Trump stated, “I inherited the mess. I got the prices down and they are going down still further,” claiming his administration has achieved more progress in 11 months than any previous government.
Downtown Rocky Mount: A Struggling Economy
The skyline of Rocky Mount is punctuated by the towering smokestacks that echo its past as a once-thriving tobacco hub. Trains still traverse the area, hinting at a historical significance that locals remember fondly.
– Economic Transition: The town has attempted to diversify into manufacturing and biopharmaceuticals. However, city government financial troubles have resulted in increased utility rates, leaving many residents frustrated.
While efforts are underway to revitalize downtown, progress remains slow. Patti Slep, co-owner of The Miner’s Emporium, expressed hope for change but acknowledged the town’s ongoing struggles:
– “Every downtown in every little town is beautiful, but without the businesses, it’s dead,” she lamented.
With storefronts boarded up and minimal foot traffic, Slep’s jewelry shop is feeling the strain. She noted a shift where more customers are selling jewelry instead of buying.
Mixed Optimism Amid Economic Strain
Looking ahead, Slep remains optimistic that Trump’s economic policies—including proposed tax cuts—will alleviate the financial burdens many residents face.
Shiva Mrain, an engineer, observed that while his family’s situation hasn’t worsened, lower gas prices have been a silver lining. In contrast, Bryant feels skepticism about any upcoming change, having not participated in the last election due to a lack of faith in either party’s ability to improve her life.
– Bryant’s Perspective: “I can’t really say … that change is coming. I don’t think anything is going to change.”
As Rocky Mount grapples with complex financial realities, the community’s opinion on Trump’s promises remains varied. While some pin their hopes on his policies for a brighter economic future, others remain cautious, feeling the tight squeeze of day-to-day expenses.
In the heart of North Carolina, the juxtaposition of political promises and real-life struggles raises critical questions about economic resilience and recovery in the months ahead.