They Grew Up on Mexican Coke. Trump’s Cane Sugar Plan Makes Them Uneasy.
The New York TimesThursday, July 17, 2025 at 10:37:44 AM
For many Mexican Americans, Coca-Cola made with cane sugar—often called "Mexican Coke"—is more than just a drink; it's a nostalgic taste of home. But now, former President Trump's proposal to prioritize domestic cane sugar production has some worried that their beloved beverage could become harder to find or more expensive. The concern isn't just about soda—it taps into deeper anxieties about cultural identity and economic policies that might disrupt familiar comforts.
Editor’s Note: This isn't just a story about sugar—it's about how small policy shifts can ripple into people's daily lives in unexpected ways. For communities with strong ties to Mexico, Mexican Coke is a cultural touchstone. If Trump's plan makes it harder to get, it could feel like another wedge in the ongoing tension between tradition and political change. Plus, it raises questions about how trade policies impact the little things that bring people joy.
— Curated via WP Now’s
