Las Vegas Resident Faces Economic Struggles Amid Trump’s Policies
Las Vegas resident Aaron Mahan, a lifelong Republican who twice voted for Donald Trump, now grapples with the economic fallout he attributes to the former president’s policies. As the 2024 election approaches, Mahan expresses disillusionment, feeling that Trump’s leadership has exacerbated his financial struggles and contributed to a downturn in tourism that is critical to Las Vegas’ economy.
Mahan, who has worked in the hospitality industry for decades, finds himself in a precarious position. “I just saw more of the bad qualities, more of the ego,” he reflected. He voted for Trump’s reelection primarily out of party loyalty, but his enthusiasm has waned significantly. On election day, illness provided him an excuse to refrain from voting, highlighting his internal conflict. “I don’t think he’s evil,” Mahan stated. Instead, he identifies as “a Trump realist,” acknowledging both positive and negative aspects of the former president’s tenure.
The economic landscape Mahan navigates is increasingly challenging. He describes an alarming decline in his income, estimating a loss of approximately $2,000 each month. The rising costs of essentials—fuel, groceries, and utilities—compound his worries. “Everything is costing more,” said Mahan, who has had to adjust his spending habits significantly. For instance, the cost of his favorite soda has soared from $4 for three bottles to nearly $3 each.
Mahan’s current situation exemplifies the broader economic struggles faced by many in Las Vegas. The city relies heavily on tourism, which has suffered a significant downturn. Passenger arrivals at Harry Reid International Airport have decreased, and hotel occupancy rates have also fallen. “The decline of both has resulted in a painful downturn,” Mahan explained, linking the drop in tourism to what he terms “the Trump slump.”
He believes that Trump’s handling of inflation, along with his contentious immigration and foreign policies, has alienated potential visitors. Mahan observed, “The Canadians aren’t coming. The Mexicans aren’t coming. The Europeans aren’t coming in the way they did.” He attributes this to Trump’s unapologetic approach to governance, which he feels has created a less welcoming atmosphere for international tourists.
Mahan’s personal background informs his perspective. Raised in a military family, he has lived across the United States and even spent some time in England. After settling in Las Vegas at the age of 15, he began his career in the hospitality sector, progressing through various roles in well-known establishments. Despite his adaptability, the current economic climate presents a unique set of challenges.
With tourism down, the casino where Mahan works has altered its operations, transitioning from a full-service coffee shop to a limited-hour buffet. This change has directly impacted his earnings, as he now works at a takeout window instead of waiting tables. The reduction in tips has made it increasingly difficult for him to maintain his lifestyle.
Mahan is concerned about the future. His emergency savings were recently depleted after spending $14,000 to replace a broken air conditioner. “It feels as though I’m just barely getting by,” he stated. His lack of optimism is palpable as he contemplates what lies ahead. “I’m looking forward to the day Trump leaves office,” he added.
Despite his frustrations, Mahan maintains a nuanced view of Trump’s presidency. He appreciates certain achievements, such as border security, but is critical of the aggressive tactics used against immigrant communities. As a shop steward with the Culinary Union, he is also wary of potential threats to organized labor, fearing that Trump may target unions next.
While Mahan’s personal experience reflects a broader discontent, there are some signs of resilience in Las Vegas’ economy. Jeremy Aguero, a principal analyst with Applied Analysis, noted slight increases in convention bookings and gaming revenues. “The layoff trends and unemployment insurance have edged up,” Aguero stated, “but they’re certainly not wildly elevated in comparison to other periods of instability.”
Mahan, however, finds little comfort in these statistics. As he continues to serve drinks and hand over takeout food, he closely monitors his finances. If he could speak to his past self—the hopeful Aaron of 2016—he would likely emphasize the need to “prepare for a bumpy ride.”
As the political landscape evolves, Mahan’s journey illustrates the intersection of personal experience and national policy, underscoring the significant impact of economic conditions on everyday lives in Las Vegas.
