Trump touts booming economy at Montana rally, but supporters feel the pinch

President Donald Trump touted a booming economy at a rally in Montana on Wednesday, saying "We have very little inflation" as the U. S. inflation rate climbed 3.

7% over the past year. Trump's message was that people aren't hurting; they're thriving, with poverty down and incomes up. He claimed that more than $22 trillion is flowing into the country, leading to the construction of new plants across Montana and the country.

However, the economic reality for many people in Montana is different. In interviews before Trump's appearance, supporters said they're feeling squeezed by grocery, housing, and fuel costs. Moneen Ahlquist, an 84-year-old homemaker, said she shops at stores where she can pump her gas and get a few cents off to save on gas.

Megan Gurhlke, a 44-year-old dairy farm worker, stated that despite her family's hard work, they can't afford basic items due to high prices. Trump's supporters also don't blame him for the economic struggles. Some echoed his claim that former President Joe Biden is to blame for high prices, while others said they're prepared to wait for Trump's policies to take effect.

Gary Hanson, a 67-year-old hardware store owner, said it will take time for prices to turn around, and Trump is looking at the long-term picture. Despite the economic challenges, Trump's supporters remain loyal to him. Jennifer Piperakis, a 53-year-old woman, said she loves Trump's efforts to help veterans, despite the high cost of diesel fuel for her truck.

She also praised Trump's policies, saying he's not about himself, but about trying to help. Trump's message is that the economy is booming, with stock market gains boosting retirement savings. He predicted that fuel costs will drop once the Iran war ends.

He also defended his tariffs, saying they've produced considerable wealth. However, his claims about inflation and the economy's performance are at odds with the reality faced by many people in Montana. Trump's campaign is taking place just three weeks before the midterm elections, which often hinge on the economy.

Polling suggests that voters' unhappiness with economic conditions could cost the Republicans their slim congressional majority. Trump's message is that people are thriving, but the economic reality for many is far from it. The contrast between Trump's message and the economic reality in Montana highlights the challenges he faces in the final leg of his Western campaign swing. Trump's supporters may be loyal, but the economic struggles faced by many people in Montana could be a major issue in the upcoming elections.