In Iowa visit, Trump puts focus on farmers as Republicans struggle to hold once-fertile ground
Appeal to Iowa farmers
Trump spoke Thursday in a crowded airplane hangar in western Iowa, during harvest season after heavy September rains. He highlighted an $8 billion program intended to offset high diesel prices, drawing cheers from supporters.
Energy costs and voter concerns
The effect of the programs on next month’s elections is unclear. Diesel prices have fallen slightly from record levels last month but remain above $6 per gallon, while global crude prices remain high. Polls show most voters blame the Iran war for rising energy costs and disapprove of the administration’s handling of the conflict. Trump said he had noticed low gasoline prices on an Iowa trip before hostilities began, adding, “I had to do something.”
Competitive races in a stronghold
Trump appeared in Iowa’s 4th Congressional District, where he won by more than 30 points in 2024, compared with a 13-point statewide victory. Yet Senate, House and gubernatorial contests have become more competitive than expected. Republican candidate Turek blamed “the unnecessary war in Iran” for energy costs during a debate earlier this month. On Thursday, Trump praised Hinson, saying she stood between Iowans and “communists controlling the United States Senate.”
Hinson and local supporters
Hinson said she asks Trump for things for Iowa when they speak by phone, adding, “That’s exactly what you would expect me to do, right?” She has recently emphasized her intention to work with the president for Iowans. Sioux City resident Tom McGaffey backed Hinson and said lower fuel prices would help. Trump supporter Curt Strathman said he was “kind of worried” about the political impact of the Iran war, while believing Trump concluded “it needed to be done.”
Key points
- Trump promoted an $8 billion fuel relief program and measures to increase refining capacity.
- Diesel prices remain above $6 per gallon despite easing slightly from last month’s record levels.
- Iowa’s Senate, House and gubernatorial races have grown unexpectedly competitive.
- Voters’ concerns about the Iran war and energy prices could affect the elections.