BYRON CENTER, Mich. – Former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance (R-Ohio), have outlined their plans to address the affordability crisis afflicting America. During separate speeches on August 14, they revealed their strategies.
Speaking at a rally in Asheville, North Carolina, Trump declared a specific objective. He pledged to reduce energy costs by at least 50 percent within the first 12 to 18 months of his potential new term if reelected.
Trump stated, “My administration will approve new energy infrastructure quickly, ensuring energy independence and dominance. On my first day back in the Oval Office, I will sign an executive order empowering every Cabinet secretary and agency head to utilize all available tools and authorities to combat inflation and rapidly reduce consumer prices.”
He further announced plans to target various areas, including car affordability, housing affordability, insurance costs, supply-chain issues, and prescription drug prices. Trump expected his Cabinet to deliver results within the first 100 days of his new administration.
Vance, who grew up in poverty but graduated from Yale Law School before entering politics, echoed the concerns about affordability. He warned that many Americans were facing financial hardship and might not be able to own property in the future.
Highlighting their divergence from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’ policies, both Trump and Vance emphasized the importance of drilling for oil and natural gas. Vance argued that the Biden-Harris policies had led to higher fuel prices, affecting various sectors of the economy.
In Vance’s words, “If we ‘drill, baby, drill’ and tap into the abundant resources of our nation, we can significantly reduce food prices for American consumers. Drilling for gas and oil, along with bringing manufacturing back to the United States, are crucial steps in achieving this goal.”
Addressing concerns about inflation, Charlie Cordes, a company co-owner, acknowledged the impact of rising prices on individuals and businesses. He commended Vance for working alongside Trump to improve the financial conditions for hardworking Americans.
Vance also questioned Vice President Harris’ involvement in addressing inflation and other economic problems during her time as Biden’s vice president. He raised concerns about her lack of news conferences or interviews since she was named as Biden’s preferred successor.
Mike Rogers, a Republican candidate vying for a seat in the U.S. Senate from Michigan, urged the audience to take action in support of those affected by rising costs. He emphasized the importance of mobilizing and ensuring that every vote is counted in the upcoming elections.