Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, is sounding the alarm that Republican enthusiasm is waning in rural America, a trend he says could have serious consequences in the upcoming midterm elections.
In an interview with NewsNation, Miller argued that the GOP's focus on rapid data center development, particularly in Texas, has alienated voters who feel their concerns are being ignored. He criticized Governor Greg Abbott for not taking a firmer stance against the projects, which have drawn backlash from local communities.
"Basically, we've just quit listening to the people, and we're gonna pay for it this election," Miller said. He added that "eighty percent of people don't want a data center in their backyard," reflecting a growing sentiment that the tech-driven boom is not benefiting everyday Texans.
Miller's comments come as Trump's administration rolls out an $8 billion relief package aimed at helping farmers cope with record-high diesel prices. The program is designed to offset the estimated $5 billion in extra fuel costs that farms have incurred over the past year. However, a U.S. agriculture official indicated that payments are unlikely to arrive until after the midterms, a timing that may not help Republicans at the ballot box.
While Miller acknowledged the relief effort, he was candid about the struggles facing farmers. "We don't want a handout... but if it comes right down to filing bankruptcy and not being able to feed our families, we'll take it," he said. He also pointed to the "highest diesel prices we ever paid, highest fertilizer prices," noting that "it's tough out here making a living in agriculture."
Farmers are also grappling with a 40 to 50 percent drop in prices for major crops, even as input costs soar. The ongoing conflict in Iran has further exacerbated diesel price hikes, adding to the financial strain on agricultural producers.
Despite his loyalty to Trump, Miller expressed frustration with the administration's recent decisions, including the reduction of tariffs on imported beef. "We have to be food independent," he emphasized, urging the administration to reconsider policies that undercut domestic producers.
"I still support President Trump, but he needs to get some new advisers because it's not working," Miller said, signaling a growing rift between the former president and his rural base.
This discontent is not limited to Texas. NewsNation also spoke with Missouri farmer Will Westmoreland, who noted a trend of farmers abandoning Trump, a development that could prove pivotal in key agricultural states.
As the midterms approach, the GOP's ability to retain rural support will be critical. With Trump stumping in Texas and other battlegrounds, the party is hoping to energize its base, but Miller's warnings suggest that the path to victory may be more complicated than expected.
Miller's critique of the data center push is part of a broader concern about the GOP's priorities. Trump's recent rally swing has targeted Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton, but Miller's comments indicate that the party's message may be out of step with rural voters.
Meanwhile, the administration's approval ratings remain low, with Trump's approval edging up to 32% amid economic and international pressures. The combination of farm distress, data center controversies, and policy missteps could prove toxic for Republicans in the midterms.
Miller's blunt assessment underscores a growing anxiety within the GOP that the party is losing touch with its core constituents. As farmers face mounting challenges and feel unheard, the political fallout could be significant.
