Voices of Pennsylvania Swing Voters: Affordability Concerns and Political Choices

Illustrated portraits by Tara Anand showcase the voices of Pennsylvania swing voters. These voters, including Stephen, Colleen, and John, are part of a long-term NPR reporting project called Swing Shift. They express their perceptions on politics without fear of repercussions.

John’s Perspective

John, 60, frequents dollar stores and is disillusioned with President Trump’s unfulfilled promise to cut prices. “It became the ‘$1.25 store’ under Biden,” John noted during an interview in his Philadelphia kitchen. He observed that items, due to tariffs and other factors, now often cost $1.50 or more. Despite being retired and working part-time as a security guard, John considers himself luckier than many even if he describes his financial situation as “stressed.” He has never earned above $60,000 annually. The escalation of inflation post-COVID left him disenchanted with Biden, whom he initially supported after voting for Trump in 2024 and 2016. His rating for Biden’s performance dwindled from a B+ to a C as he believes promises remain unmet.

Stephen’s Challenges

Nearby, in a Philadelphia suburb, Stephen, 52, copes with disability and part-time work in a low-wage job. Financial strains mean he sometimes runs out of food. Elevated prices of basics like meat and eggs affect him significantly. Though he once enjoyed concerts, he found the $200 ticket to see his favorite band Rush unaffordable. Stephen’s frustrations with President Trump’s economic focus led him to rate the president’s performance with a D, despite his history as a Biden to Trump voter. He feels Trump prioritizes personal interests over people like himself.

Colleen’s Economic Realities

Colleen, a mother of two, juggles work and volunteering. Her daughters’ obsession with squishy toys like Nee Doh’s had her driving extensively, highlighting her fuel expenses. While financially stable, Colleen and her husband remain cautious of unforeseen expenses. Disenchanted with constant political turmoil, she aims for changes in education and homelessness policies. She voted for Trump in 2016 but soon grew dissatisfied with what she perceived as erratic behavior, rating him a D-.

These stories depict the concerns of swing voters dealing with affordability issues and examining political choices amid economic anxieties.