US Farmer Struggling to Survive as Fuel Prices Soar

North Carolina farmer Matt Bell, who voted for President Trump, is struggling to keep his farm afloat due to soaring fuel prices and tariff impacts. His diesel fuel costs have doubled since last year, with prices averaging $6.40 per gallon nationwide, nearly double the price a year ago.

Bell grows soybeans, corn, and wheat on over 1,000 acres and raises beef cattle. He has been forced to make significant changes to his operation, including producing his own fertilizer, but still faces crippling costs.

'We've cut everything we can cut,' Bell said. 'The last several years in agriculture have been terrible, and we have just cut the fat anywhere we could. But we're just getting to the point now there's nothing left to cut.'

Bell initially supported President Trump's policies but now criticizes the administration's decision-making around the war with Iran, saying 'I think we've been misled.' He also feels that the administration has not delivered on its promises of supporting American farmers and ranchers.