Michigan's Food Pantry Lines Grow as Prices Stay High

In the small town of Capac, Michigan, a food pantry sees a steady stream of cars, each waiting for basic supplies like lettuce and apples. These items, once affordable, have seen their prices climb or remain stubbornly high.

A Mother's Struggle

Taylor Ludwig, a 35-year-old mother of three, is one of those waiting in line. She voted for President Donald Trump last year, hoping he would tackle inflation. But nearly a year into his presidency, the cost of essentials like cereal and vegetables is still a struggle for her family.

"Ludwig blames former President Joe Biden for the high cost of living. She's not alone; most of the 19 Trump voters interviewed in Capac and nearby areas share her view."

Wavering Support

However, her support for Trump is wavering. She's not ready to blindly follow him if he doesn't deliver on his promises to lower prices. This sentiment could have ripple effects beyond Michigan, potentially influencing the upcoming congressional elections.

St. Clair County: A Republican Stronghold

St. Clair County, where Capac is located, has been growing more Republican over the years. It's a mix of farms, small towns, and industrial areas, with a predominantly white population. The local economy relies heavily on auto suppliers and manufacturers, but many residents feel left behind.

"Inflation has eased slightly in the Detroit area, which includes St. Clair County, but prices for everyday staples like beef and coffee remain high."

The Blame Game

Despite the economic challenges, most interviewees still blame Biden for their financial struggles. They point to the recent drop in gasoline prices as a positive sign under Trump's administration. However, half of them admit they're struggling to make ends meet. Some are considering voting Democrat if the economic situation doesn't improve.

Bob Benjamin: A Retired Auto Worker

Bob Benjamin, a retired auto worker, visits the food pantry to help his adult grandchildren cope with rising costs. He's not ready to abandon Trump yet, but he's keeping an eye on the economic conditions. If things don't improve, he might switch his vote.

Economists Weigh In

Economists argue that a president's ability to quickly lower prices is limited. Trump's tariffs, for instance, raise import costs that often get passed on to consumers. Trump hasn't outlined a clear plan to lower prices, but his administration points to tax cuts passed by Congress as a solution.

Democrats Gear Up

Meanwhile, Democrats are gearing up to make rising prices a central issue in the 2026 election campaign. They see Trump's downplaying of the "affordability" issue as a vulnerability. Some Republican strategists share this concern, fearing it could make Trump appear out of touch and prompt some of his supporters to sit out the election.