Residents of Delta, overwhelmingly supportive of President Trump, rally behind his newly announced tariffs, seeing potential economic benefits despite broader market volatility.
Trump's Tariff Strategy Receives Strong Support in Ohio's Heartland

Trump's Tariff Strategy Receives Strong Support in Ohio's Heartland
In the small town of Delta, Ohio, the fervor for Trump's trade policies is palpable, illustrating a complex mix of patriotism and economic hope.
In Delta, Ohio, where Trump's presidency retains fervent support, the recent unveiling of expansive tariffs has been met with optimism. The small town boasts enthusiastic displays of Trump flags, a testament to the strong Republican presence that secured a two-to-one victory for the party in the last election. Amidst economic uncertainty, many here embrace these new tariffs, which range from 10% to 50% on goods from almost every country. Trump justifies these measures as a way to rectify trade imbalances and foster American industries, claims that resonate deeply with many locals.
Mary Miller, the manager of Delta Candy Emporium and a staunch Trump supporter, shares her views on the importance of fair trade. She's unconcerned about potential price hikes due to tariffs, believing they are necessary to bring jobs back to American workers. Miller recalls a time when jobs were plentiful in the U.S. and expresses a desire to see the manufacturing that has fled return to her community.
Delta, a town of approximately 3,300 residents, reflects a broader sentiment of resilience among Midwestern communities. This is especially significant as manufacturers brace for the tariffs' impact. The automotive industry, known for its extensive global supply chains, faces considerable risks. Yet, local businesses, like North Star BlueScope—a steel firm—see an opportunity for growth in this new era of American protectionism, pushing for increased tariffs on steel and aluminum while requesting exemptions for raw materials.
Despite fears of economic fallout, Delta residents remain largely nonchalant. Many workers at local plants express a casual attitude toward the financial turbulence experienced in the stock markets following Trump's announcement. Gene Burkholder, a local farmer, views the current economic situation as an opportunity rather than a crisis, encouraging others to invest in undervalued stocks.
As sentiments run high, some residents cling to hope for a revitalized local economy, despite declining quality of life indicators over the years. The Gilson family reflects on how Delta has transformed since the 1960s, lamenting a loss of safety and community spirit. Yet, they, like many others, appreciate that the current administration is at least attempting to enact change, even if they harbor doubts about the effectiveness of Trump's policies.
As Delta grapples with both its historical economic challenges and current disruptions in trade, the town's embrace of Trump's tariff strategy speaks volumes about the quest for revitalization amid uncertainty, a sentiment shared by many across the heartland.
Mary Miller, the manager of Delta Candy Emporium and a staunch Trump supporter, shares her views on the importance of fair trade. She's unconcerned about potential price hikes due to tariffs, believing they are necessary to bring jobs back to American workers. Miller recalls a time when jobs were plentiful in the U.S. and expresses a desire to see the manufacturing that has fled return to her community.
Delta, a town of approximately 3,300 residents, reflects a broader sentiment of resilience among Midwestern communities. This is especially significant as manufacturers brace for the tariffs' impact. The automotive industry, known for its extensive global supply chains, faces considerable risks. Yet, local businesses, like North Star BlueScope—a steel firm—see an opportunity for growth in this new era of American protectionism, pushing for increased tariffs on steel and aluminum while requesting exemptions for raw materials.
Despite fears of economic fallout, Delta residents remain largely nonchalant. Many workers at local plants express a casual attitude toward the financial turbulence experienced in the stock markets following Trump's announcement. Gene Burkholder, a local farmer, views the current economic situation as an opportunity rather than a crisis, encouraging others to invest in undervalued stocks.
As sentiments run high, some residents cling to hope for a revitalized local economy, despite declining quality of life indicators over the years. The Gilson family reflects on how Delta has transformed since the 1960s, lamenting a loss of safety and community spirit. Yet, they, like many others, appreciate that the current administration is at least attempting to enact change, even if they harbor doubts about the effectiveness of Trump's policies.
As Delta grapples with both its historical economic challenges and current disruptions in trade, the town's embrace of Trump's tariff strategy speaks volumes about the quest for revitalization amid uncertainty, a sentiment shared by many across the heartland.