Farmer who voted for Trump says farmers are "all just in survival mode"
Summary
Matt Bell, a 52-year-old farmer from North Carolina who voted for President Donald Trump, says high prices for fuel, fertilizer, and equipment are making it hard for farmers like him to keep their farms running. He has had to make big changes to how he farms because diesel fuel costs have nearly doubled and tariffs have raised prices on many supplies.Key Facts
- Matt Bell farms over 1,000 acres growing soybeans, corn, wheat, and raising beef cattle.
- Diesel fuel prices have nearly doubled in the past year, with a national average around $6.40 per gallon.
- Bell’s farm equipment runs on diesel, costing about $600 daily, double what it was last year.
- Bell exceeded his yearly fuel budget by August and expects to spend up to $60,000 on fuel in 2026.
- Tariffs put in place by President Trump on imports have increased the cost of fertilizer, chemicals, seed, and parts.
- China has a 10% tariff on U.S. soybeans as a response to U.S. fentanyl-related tariffs, keeping the soybean market uncertain.
- The ongoing conflict with Iran and disruptions in oil supply routes have contributed to higher fuel prices worldwide.
- Farmers are finding it hard to reduce costs further because fuel and fertilizer are essential for their operations.
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