How the humble burrito triggered a Maga ‘civil war’ in Trump’s party
World

How the humble burrito triggered a Maga ‘civil war’ in Trump’s party

Economy World


Debate over the price of a burrito is causing indigestion for President Donald Trump’s Republican Party, which fears being punished for the high cost of living in November’s midterm elections.

The Mexican speciality – rice, beans, meat and other toppings wrapped in a tortilla – is beloved by many Americans as a comforting, filling and inexpensive meal.

Not any more, argues Andrew Kolvet, a spokesman for the conservative youth organisation Turning Point USA.

“One of our TPUSA college students gave me his take on affordability: ‘A burrito shouldn’t cost $20.’ Yeah, a lot of this is a hangover from Covid and Biden-era inflation, but the lived experience is the same: It just feels like basic things cost too much,” Kolvet said in a viral social media post this week.

Those comments set off what Fox News, the Republicans’ favourite channel, is describing as a “civil war” within the party.

US Democrats have made affordability and the economy their defining midterm messaging, playing off elevated inflation and prices for groceries. Photo illustration: TNS
US Democrats have made affordability and the economy their defining midterm messaging, playing off elevated inflation and prices for groceries. Photo illustration: TNS

Some conservatives questioned the cited price and accused American youth of having expensive tastes while others came to their defence – and warned of political fallout.