As Michigan’s election season gathers momentum, Muskegon residents are making the cost of living the centerpiece of their conversations at the local farmers market. Shoppers, grandparents, and farmers alike described how rising prices for groceries, gasoline and everyday necessities are tightening household budgets.

Families feel the squeeze

Arletha Banks, who supports a multigenerational household of 15, explained that higher fuel and transportation costs are directly inflating food prices. “We used to take the kids to a pumpkin patch,” she said, “now we’re making one at home to save money.”

Enrique Reyes, a Muskegon native now living in nearby Fremont, echoed the sentiment. “We stretch our paychecks, paycheck to paycheck. Sometimes that doesn’t even work, and it’s harder and harder every day,” he told reporters.

Farmers share the burden

Vendors at the market also reported feeling the pressure. David England, a farmer from Mears, pointed to soaring fuel and labor costs. “We try to avoid passing additional expenses on to customers unless necessary,” he said, adding that he remains hopeful. “I see it getting better. I have no negative thoughts on it. It’s going to get better.”

Allison Egler of Egler Family Farms, a family operation that has been in business since 1955, described the challenge of balancing equipment, diesel and other inputs while keeping prices affordable. She worries about the future of small farms and the next generation of growers.

Voters want policy solutions

When asked what they hope elected officials will do, Egler emphasized the need for policies that consider the impact on small family farms. “We want leaders to think about how their decisions affect our ability to keep feeding the community,” she said.

Across the market, the common thread was clear: everyday expenses are squeezing families, and voters are looking to candidates for relief. Whether through tax relief, reduced regulatory burdens on small farms, or initiatives that lower transportation costs, Muskegon residents want concrete steps that will make life more affordable.

Looking ahead

With ballots due soon, the cost‑of‑living conversation is likely to shape campaign messages and voter decisions in Muskegon and the surrounding area. Community members hope that the upcoming election will bring leaders who prioritize family stability, support traditional family farms, and uphold the values that keep neighborhoods strong.

Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.