Power, Corruption, and Small-Town America: How the Presidencies of Lyndon B. Johnson and Joe Biden Have a Federal Impact on Small Towns
In small towns like Vermilion, residents can feel the consequences of national policies more deeply than those in major cities. From inflation driving up the cost of everyday goods to federal funds being funneled overseas instead of addressing local needs, the effects of presidential decisions ripple through communities in ways often overlooked by mainstream discussions. A historical comparison of the presidencies of Lyndon B. Johnson and Joe Biden reveals troubling similarities—both men expanded government power, oversaw costly foreign wars, and left small towns scrambling to keep up with rising economic pressures.
Two Career Politicians, Two Paths to Power
Lyndon B. Johnson rose to power through decades in Washington, eventually assuming the presidency after John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Joe Biden, another career politician, spent decades in the Senate before becoming vice president and later, president. Both leaders have been accused of using their positions to expand their influence and push controversial policies with long-term consequences. While their paths differed, their presidencies share striking similarities—particularly in their handling of government spending and foreign conflicts.
The Economic Burden on Small Towns
Under Johnson’s Great Society programs, the federal government expanded its role in welfare and public services. While some initiatives were well-intended, the long-term impact left many small towns economically dependent on federal aid while local businesses struggled with rising costs. Similarly, Biden’s economic policies—marked by historic inflation—have made everyday life more expensive in places like Vermilion. The cost of infrastructure projects, groceries, and small business supplies have skyrocketed, forcing local leaders to stretch already-thin budgets.
A Vermilion resident need only look at their grocery bill to see the impact. The price of eggs, milk, and meat has risen significantly, making it harder for working families to afford basic necessities. Infrastructure projects, including road repairs and water system updates, now cost exponentially more than they did a few years ago, leaving local governments scrambling to meet basic needs.
Foreign Wars: Then and Now
One of the most controversial aspects of Johnson’s presidency was his handling of the Vietnam War, which drained U.S. resources and cost thousands of American lives, including those from small towns like Vermilion. Many residents at the time questioned why billions were being spent overseas while domestic issues—such as infrastructure and economic stability—remained unaddressed.
Fast forward to Biden’s presidency, and history appears to be repeating itself. The United States has sent billions of taxpayer dollars to Ukraine to support its war effort, while inflation soars at home. Small business owners in Vermilion may not speak out publicly, but common sense suggests they would rather see those funds used to repair roads, support struggling industries, and invest in local development rather than being sent overseas.
Allegations of Corruption and the Consequences
Both Johnson and Biden have faced serious allegations of corruption. Johnson was long suspected of using his political influence to secure financial benefits for himself and his allies. Similarly, Biden’s family business dealings—especially those involving foreign entities—have raised concerns about conflicts of interest and misuse of power.
A Political Reckoning for Small Towns?
Johnson’s presidency ended with a fractured Democratic Party and widespread dissatisfaction, leading him to announce he would not seek reelection in 1968. Similarly, Biden faced mounting political challenges—rising inflation, concerns about foreign entanglements, and increasing scrutiny over his administration’s policies—which ultimately led to his decision not to seek reelection. With both leaders stepping down under pressure, small-town voters played and continue to play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape moving forward.
The residents of Vermilion and other small towns across America are not powerless. Their voices, votes, and engagement in local governance can help steer national priorities back to domestic issues that directly affect their lives. The lesson from history is clear: when government policies prioritize war and power over the well-being of American communities, small towns bear the brunt of the consequences. The question now is whether Vermilion and towns like it will demand a different path before history repeats itself once again.
Joseph Jones
Opinion: Trump’s America First Agenda and Its Consequences for Small Towns
In just a short time back in office, President Donald Trump has wasted no time enacting sweeping policy changes that will have lasting consequences for communities across America—especially in small towns like Vermilion, Ohio. With a flurry of executive orders and bold policy shifts, his administration has made clear that his “America First” agenda is back in full force. But what does that really mean for the people who call small-town America home?
One of Trump’s key promises has been to slash government spending, particularly in agencies he deems unnecessary or wasteful. His push to eliminate the Department of Education through executive order has left educators and parents scrambling for answers. For small towns like Vermilion, this could mean less federal funding for schools, potentially impacting special education programs, free and reduced lunch for low-income students, and college readiness initiatives.
Additionally, federal programs that support rural development and infrastructure could be on the chopping block. Trump has long argued that such programs breed government dependency, but for small towns struggling to maintain roads, water systems, and broadband access, these cuts could be devastating.
Trump’s attempts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and scale back Medicaid expansion have serious implications for rural hospitals and clinics. In small communities, healthcare facilities rely heavily on federal funding and Medicaid reimbursements to stay afloat. Reducing these funds could result in hospital closures or fewer services, forcing residents to travel long distances for basic medical care.
Trump’s tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy were sold as a way to boost economic growth and create jobs. However, history has shown that trickle-down economics rarely benefits working-class families in small towns. Vermilion residents, many of whom are middle-class workers and small business owners, could find themselves paying more in taxes over time if corporate tax breaks are prioritized over funding for public services.
Trump has rolled back numerous environmental regulations, arguing that they stifle economic growth. While this might benefit large industries, it could have dire consequences for communities that rely on clean air, water, and natural resources. Vermilion, located on the shores of Lake Erie, could see negative effects if environmental protections are weakened, leading to increased pollution and threats to local fisheries and tourism.
Despite promises to champion the working class, Trump’s policies thus far seem to favor big business and corporate interests over the everyday needs of small-town America. The elimination of federal oversight, the rollback of labor protections, and continued tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans suggest that the economic playing field may become even more unbalanced.
Small-town Americans voted in large numbers for Trump, hoping for a revitalization of their communities. However, as the effects of his policies begin to take hold, many may start to wonder whether these changes truly serve their best interests. Will Vermilion see economic growth, or will it suffer from the loss of federal support in education, healthcare, and infrastructure? Only time will tell, but the early signs suggest that small towns may once again be left behind while the wealthiest reap the benefits.
Trump’s policies may appeal to those who desire less government intervention, but at what cost? If small towns like Vermilion are to thrive, they need investment, not neglect. As the next few years unfold, Americans in rural communities must critically assess whether the administration’s policies are truly helping them or simply benefiting those at the top.
Larry Larkin
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Dear Editor,
In our fast-paced world, Sunday mornings have become yet another time to catch up on errands,
attend activities, or take care of work-related tasks. However, I believe we are losing something
invaluable in the process — the opportunity for families to gather in worship and spiritual
reflection.
For generations, Sunday has been a day set aside for rest, reflection, and worship. It is a time
when families could come together in Church, share in the message of hope, and nourish their
spiritual lives. But today, society seems determined to fill every available moment of our lives
with commitments that detract from this important tradition. Whether it’s youth sports leagues,
retail obligations, or other activities, many families find themselves busier than ever on Sunday
mornings, leaving little room for what is often the most important part of the week — worship.
The impact on our families is profound. As the glue that holds families together, religion offers
more than just a set of moral guidelines; it provides a sense of community, stability, and purpose.
Worship on Sundays is not just a religious act, but a time for families to connect with each other
in an atmosphere of calm, reflection, and faith. It is a vital practice that supports mental and
emotional well-being, providing families with the resilience needed to face the challenges of the
week ahead.
We must not let society’s busyness rob us of the time we need for spiritual growth. While there is
no doubt that work and activities are important, we must also recognize the importance of sacred
time — especially as a family. Encouraging and protecting the practice of Sunday worship is
essential not just for our spiritual health, but for the cohesion of families and society at large.
I urge community leaders, business owners, and policymakers to reconsider the expectations
placed on families and to make space for them to worship together on Sundays. It’s a choice that
would strengthen our families, enrich our communities, and, ultimately, create a healthier, more
balanced society.
Sincerely,
Pastor Cliff Morris
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