A CNN reporter got into a heated exchange with a Trump supporter about the economy during a MAGA boat parade in Panama City, Florida.
Elle Reeve from CNN interviewed Trump supporters about their top concerns for the 2024 election. Joe Harner, one of the supporters, told her that his biggest issue was the economy, saying everything had become "too expensive."
Reeve pushed back, questioning his perspective.
"If you can afford a boat, you're not hurting that bad, right?" she asked, pointing out the high costs involved with owning a boat.
Harner didn't hold back.
"Nobody gave me s—! I earned everything I’ve got," he shot back.
He explained he had worked hard, retiring from both the military and a power plant, and his success was earned, not given.
Reeve tried to clarify.
"I'm not taking anything away from you," she said. "But groceries might be less of a burden for you compared to someone worse off."
She continued, expressing surprise that someone in his position was still so concerned about the economy.
Harner explained his reasoning.
"I want my money to go further," he said, adding that inflation and high interest rates hurt everyone, not just the rich or poor.
Reeve asked if he was worried about his kids affording a house or car.
He confidently replied, "No. My kids are educated, and they're doing better than me."
While inflation has slowed to 2.5% by August 2024, prices have risen significantly over the last four years, with food prices up 22.8%.
But Harner may find relief in the Federal Reserve's recent interest rate cut, the first reduction in four years.