Even with post-election optimism, the latest Ag Econ Barometer showed a slight drop in farmer sentiment

“People remain optimistic about the future”

The latest Ag Economy Barometer has been released showing a slight drop in farmer sentiment.

Farmer sentiment fell by 9 points to 136. Despite the decline in numbers, producers still reported post-election optimism about the future.

Farmers’ long-term outlooks over the next five years were far more optimistic than their outlooks over the next twelve months.

Dr. Jim Mintert with Purdue University spoke with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander on key factors contributing to the sentiment, international trade, and other policy shifts under the new administration.

Related Stories
Shaun Haney joined us to discuss Canada’s new trade agreement with China, the potential impact on farmers and exporters, and what it could mean for U.S.–Canada trade relations going forward.
The proposal signals a renewed push to offset tariff-driven losses, stabilize nutrition programs, and broaden eligibility for farm aid, though its path forward will depend on congressional negotiations.
The application deadline is March 8, 2026. The 1890 National Scholars Program aims to encourage students at 1890 land-grant universities to pursue careers in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences.
Soft equipment sales signal cautious farm spending as producers prioritize cash flow over expansion.
Wind repowering offers a rare opportunity to renegotiate outdated leases and improve long-term land income for landowners who act early.