During Tuesday’s edition of “Laura Coates Live” on CNN, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear (D) expressed his views on the economic impact of former President Donald Trump’s policies. Beshear highlighted a shift in perspective, noting that while it was once believed a president had limited influence on the economy, the current economic conditions have changed that narrative.

Beshear criticized Trump’s handling of trade relations, particularly with China, warning that temporary assistance to farmers might not suffice if Chinese markets turn to Brazil and Argentina. He emphasized the dire consequences for soybean farmers, who could face losing their farms permanently due to these shifts. Beshear also pointed to broader economic repercussions, such as the potential closure of 35 rural hospitals in Kentucky, as estimated by the Kentucky Hospital Association. He explained that each hospital is often the largest employer in its county, so their closure would have a ripple effect, impacting local businesses like coffee shops, restaurants, banks, and insurance companies.

The governor concluded by asserting that Trump’s actions have had a detrimental effect on the economy, challenging the previous belief that a president’s impact on economic conditions was minimal. “Donald Trump has proven us wrong,” Beshear remarked. “He is destroying it right in front of our very eyes.”