Nearly 300 people participated in FleetOwner’s informal survey, which gathered feedback on Trump’s early performance in his second term, particularly in relation to the trucking industry. Participants were asked about their role in the industry and invited to share additional comments. The survey was conducted from March 6 to March 17.
Key Findings from the Trump Trucking Survey:
The results revealed that:
- 39% expressed very negative feelings about Trump’s actions affecting trucking
- 16% reported somewhat negative feelings
- 25% felt very positive about his second term
- 9% were somewhat positive
- 10% felt neutral
Participants also had the opportunity to provide detailed responses. A variety of issues were raised concerning the impact of Trump on the trucking sector, with tariffs, emission regulations, and fuel prices standing out as the primary concerns.
Industry Perspectives on Trump’s Tariffs
The most frequently mentioned issue in the survey was tariffs. This isn’t surprising given the ongoing discussions surrounding their implementation and the potential consequences for the trucking sector, particularly in cross-border logistics and freight recovery.
One anonymous respondent commented, “He is wasting my time and the country’s with his constant vacillating on tariffs. Either do it or don’t do it. I am tired of writing analyses for my clients that are made obsolete by an about-face on the subject. And I voted for him.”
An owner-operator remarked, “Since his term started, there is no rhyme or reason for the tariffs or other decisions that are currently driving down demand for our services. Imports to and from Canada and Mexico are dwindling down, so there’s basically 75% of my business down the tubes.”
Reactions to Emission Regulations under Trump
Emission regulations also figured prominently in survey responses. With the Biden administration imposing stricter standards on heavy-duty trucking, many in the industry believe these guidelines are overly stringent and unrealistic within the proposed timelines. There is a general hope for a reevaluation of these regulations under Trump.
Overall, respondents appear to express a more favorable outlook on Trump’s potential modifications to emission regulations compared to tariffs. A fleet manager noted, “Cleaning up the California CARB rules is needed and seems to be getting done.”
Concerns About Fuel Prices During Trump’s Presidency
Amidst the ongoing trade tensions related to tariffs, fuel prices are also a pressing issue for those in the trucking industry. Many expressed concerns about how Trump’s actions have influenced fuel costs.
The owner of a bulk potable water delivery service stated, “He’s driving prices of everything from fuel to parts up. The three refineries here in the Billings, Montana, area process primarily Canadian crude oil. His tariffs have already affected the price at the pump.”
Another respondent, a safety and risk manager, acknowledged Trump’s efforts in other areas but highlighted concerns about rising tariffs and fuel prices: “Overall, President Trump is making significant improvements in government and addressing immigration issues. However, the tariffs and rising fuel prices cannot be good for trucking in the short term.”
