Deep-red state suffering 'death by a thousand paper cuts' — thanks to Trump policies: report

President Donald Trump's recent economic policies are causing significant hardship for farmers and workers in the deep red Iowa, which has traditionally supported his administration.

The New York Times highlighted the stories of Iowan farmers who are hit hard by the administration's economic agenda.

Larry Ory, an 86-year-old farmer from Earlham, Iowa, expressed disbelief upon hearing of a $20 billion U.S. bailout to Argentina, especially as Argentine soybeans began shipping to China — a market that had been vital for Iowa's soybean exports.

China halted U.S. soybean purchases following Trump's trade war, leaving American farmers without their largest customer.

The report noted that the economic strain is evident across Iowa. The state's GDP fell by 6.1 percent in the first quarter of 2025, the steepest decline after neighboring Nebraska.

Manufacturers face rising production costs due to tariffs on aluminum and steel, while meatpacking plants, which rely heavily on foreign-born workers, have been affected by changes in immigration policies. The wind energy industry, which supplies over half of Iowa's electricity, is under threat due to federal policies.

Summer Ory, who works on the family farm, likened the situation to "death by a thousand paper cuts," highlighting the cumulative impact of various economic challenges. Despite these hardships, some farmers remain hopeful.

Doug Keller, a 63-year-old farmer near Waterloo, expressed optimism that a new trade deal with China could eventually benefit farmers.

However, the growing discontent is palpable.

Josh Turek, a Democratic state representative running for the U.S. Senate seat held by retiring Rep. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), noted, "People are hurting everywhere in Iowa, and they’re looking for something different."

With key elections approaching, the impact of federal policies on Iowa's economy is expected to be a central issue.