Tariffs Receive Positive Reception in Ohio’s Industrial Heartland

While taking a brief tour around Delta, Ohio, the presence of Trump flags rivals that of the American flags scattered throughout the area.

At the gas station along the Ohio Turnpike, the fuel pumps are adorned with messages from the previous administration, such as: “Whoever voted for Biden owes me gas money!”

This area is definitely pro-Trump territory, with the Republican candidate winning the election here by nearly two to one. Despite the market unrest following Trump’s announcement of extensive global tariffs, many residents in Delta and similar Midwestern towns continue to support the president’s agenda.

The proposed tariffs, set to range from 10% to 50% on nearly all imports, have caused a stir in global trade and prompted warnings about potential price hikes for American consumers. Trump asserts that the tariffs will correct unfair trade practices, support U.S. industries, and generate revenue.

For some in Delta, the president’s perspective on equity in trade strikes a chord.

“I truly don’t wish harm on people in other nations,” stated Mary Miller, who manages the Delta Candy Emporium situated on the village’s Main Street. “However, we require a level playing field.”

A three-time Trump voter, Miller feels that foreign nations are not engaging fairly in trade. Like many locals, she has a strong preference for buying American-made products.

While tending her array of colorful candies, many sourced from the U.S., Miller contemplates how the new import duties might affect her inventory. She fondly recalls learning decades ago about one of her favorite brands moving production overseas, leading her to vow never to purchase Levi’s jeans again.

Miller remains unperturbed by the potential price hikes that many economists predict these tariffs will cause.

“Sometimes, you need to walk through a fire to reach the other side,” she remarked.

“If these tariffs bring jobs back to hardworking Americans in communities like ours, then it’s worth it.”

Such views are widespread in Delta, a town of approximately 3,300 residents situated less than 100 miles (160km) south of Detroit, even as other nearby towns brace for anticipated shocks.

The automotive sector, known for its intricate global supply chains, appears especially susceptible to the repercussions of the impending tariffs, with manufacturers in Michigan to the north and Indiana to the west already announcing plant closures and layoffs.

However, on the outskirts of Delta, several steel firms established since the 1990s might find themselves in a favorable position amidst this new wave of U.S. protectionism.

One such company, North Star BlueScope, is advocating for expanded tariffs on steel and aluminum.

Simultaneously, it has sought exemptions for the raw materials it requires, including scrap metal.

North Star BlueScope did not respond to requests for interviews, but a group of local steelworkers, just off their night shift, were enjoying beers at the Barn Restaurant early Friday morning.

The workers, preferring to remain anonymous, chuckled and shrugged when asked about the sweeping tariffs announced by Trump from the White House on Wednesday.

Their reaction seemed to suggest that this economic news is unlikely to spoil their weekend plans.

Outside the eatery, some Delta residents considered potential benefits of these import fees.

“Nobody’s panicking. We’re not losing sleep over this,” stated Gene Burkholder, who has spent decades in the agriculture sector.

Though he has some stocks, Mr. Burkholder remarked that they are long-term investments and he isn’t worried about the steep declines following the president’s announcement.

“If you have a bit of extra cash, it might be a good time to acquire shares while they’re low,” he suggested.

At a nearby booth, while finishing her breakfast with her son Rob, Louise Gilson quietly expressed skepticism about the president.

However, like many here, she desires tangible actions. When another diner remarked, “Trump might be off base, but at least he’s taking action,” she completely agreed.

“The others wouldn’t have made any progress,” she said, referencing the Democratic Party.

The Gilsons affirmed that the major local industrial employers have been generally supportive neighbors, contributing positively to the local economy, charitable initiatives, and the broader community. Still, they’ve noticed some adverse effects of industrial progress and have concerns about the unequal distribution of economic benefits.

In recounting Delta’s history, they pointed to a gradual decline in quality of life that makes many residents willing to take risks, even as economists warn of the dangers of Trump’s tariff plan.

“It used to be a nice town to grow up in,” Rob Gilson reflected. However, he noted that it now feels less secure and friendly than in the 60s and 70s.

“The essence of America seems to be fading,” he lamented.

Louise added that “Delta is the kind of town where 25% or 30% of the people are battling their challenges.”

Though these struggles may not directly relate to trade tariffs, the challenges faced by communities like Delta might help explain why many residents choose to give President Trump a chance, even as the stock market takes a downturn far away on Wall Street.