While Jordan Hayes from California usually avoids political discussions, he found himself unexpectedly aligned with former President Donald Trump on one thing: a preference for cane sugar in Coca-Cola. Hayes, 37, has long favored the imported “Mexican Coke” made with cane sugar over the standard U.S. version sweetened with corn syrup.
“There’s a distinct sweetness to it,” Hayes said, justifying the higher price. His stance mirrors Trump’s recent announcement that Coca-Cola would introduce a cane sugar-based cola in the U.S. this fall—a move the former president claims he influenced.
Though Trump is famously a Diet Coke drinker, his support for sugar isn’t new. The sugar industry has long wielded political influence, benefiting from protective tariffs and government-backed price guarantees. Under Trump’s administration, these policies were reinforced, including import restrictions and subsidies under the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill.”
Meanwhile, Trump’s Health Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has targeted corn syrup, calling it “poison” and hinting at a potential ban. Analysts say these moves could boost demand for sugar, benefiting domestic producers—though at the expense of corn farmers.
“The sugar industry is in an enviable position,” said Colin Grabow, a trade expert at the Cato Institute. “They have the president advocating for both protectionist policies and increased consumption.”
The announcement sent ripples through the food industry. Corn syrup producers saw temporary stock dips, and farming groups warned of job losses. Iowa corn farmer John Maxwell expressed confusion, given Trump’s pro-American jobs rhetoric.
“This stance contradicts everything he’s said about supporting farmers,” Maxwell said.
Despite the political maneuvering, health experts remain skeptical of any real difference between the sweeteners. Studies show both sugar and corn syrup carry similar health risks.
“The argument that one is ‘less processed’ is splitting hairs,” said nutritional biologist Kimber Stanhope.
As for taste, opinions vary. Richard Trappasse, a devoted Coke collector from Tennessee, conducted a blind taste test and found no difference between the two versions. Still, he believes Trump’s endorsement could sway consumers nostalgic for the “classic” Coke formula.
Whether the new product will succeed remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: the debate over sugar versus corn syrup is far from over.
