Tim O'Hara, a former president of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union at Lordstown, harbored a strong dislike for Donald Trump even before his presidency, citing his unfavorable treatment of union workers during his time as a builder in New York. This sentiment is not isolated in Youngstown, Ohio, a once-prosperous industrial hub now grappling with economic decline. The closure of the General Motors (GM) plant in 2018, which put 5,000 jobs at risk, accelerated the city's downturn. Many residents feel abandoned by the Democratic party and believe the political system is rigged against them. Despite his broken promises, Trump's popularity in Youngstown endures, driven by his pledge to restore jobs and rejuvenate the local economy.
The city's decline reflects broader economic struggles, with industries such as steel and car manufacturing dwindling over the decades. Many Youngstown residents express disillusionment with both the Democratic party and the political landscape. Tim O'Hara voices a common sentiment:
“I never liked Trump even when he was only a builder in New York … because he stiffed union workers and he generally seemed like a douche bag,” – Tim O’Hara
Youngstown's economic woes intensified with the closure of the GM plant, leaving many workers in precarious situations. Sonja Woods, a former GM employee displaced in 2018, captures the community's sentiment:
“We’ve been lied to, let down. It’s disappointing.” – Sonja Woods
Despite concerns over Trump's policies on healthcare and other issues, his ability to resonate with Youngstown's sense of frustration remains significant. This is not rooted in ideology but rather his capacity to address the city's nostalgia and disenchantment with the status quo. Jami Wallace reflects on the limited support from current leadership:
“It was more than we got from the Biden administration,” – Jami Wallace
“That’s what people need to stand up and realise. It’s what they do to communities they think won’t stand up for themselves.” – Jami Wallace
The absence of high-profile visits during pivotal times has not gone unnoticed. Sonja Woods highlights this neglect:
“Nobody showed up in Youngstown this time, not Trump or Kamala,” – Sonja Woods
Youngstown's challenges extend beyond economic issues. Brian Acierno paints a grim picture of social decay:
“There’s a corner gang on every street,” – Brian Acierno
“There’s no organisation. People get shot and killed wherever.” – Brian Acierno
Dave Betras, a former Democratic party county chair, acknowledges the party's disconnect with voters:
“American voters have a unique ability to smell bullshit, and they smell bullshit with the Democrats,” – Dave Betras
“Most Americans think the system is rigged. And Trump shuffled the deck on us,” – Dave Betras
Tex Fischer draws comparisons with past political figures:
“When Romney came to Youngstown,” he wore blue jeans and rolled up his sleeves, and nobody bought it. Trump doesn’t pretend – here he comes in his suit and tie and gold jewellery, and people respect that.” – Tex Fischer