A group of House lawmakers is asking President Trump to keep farmers in mind when furthering his trade policy, and it comes as another major trade deadline appears on the horizon.
The President is still planning to initiate reciprocal tariffs starting April 2nd, a little over one week away. However, some House Republicans, like Texas Representative Jodey Arrington, are asking for grace, requesting Trump to keep farmers in mind as he furthers his trade agenda.
They write trade barriers opposed by other countries hurt farmers, warning some countries will likely target the U.S. beef industry. Arrington says the U.S. has taken little action over the last few years.
The letter also highlights the growing ag trade deficit, which hit $32 billion last year, the highest on record. USDA’s most recent Farm Income Forecast shows profits are set to increase for the first time this year since 2022, but that is largely because of the assistance package that is currently being distributed.
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
October 21, 2025 12:17 PM
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In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
October 21, 2025 11:57 AM
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Beef industry groups seem to agree — market-based pricing, not federal intervention, best supports rancher livelihoods and long-term beef supply stability.
October 21, 2025 11:22 AM
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Cattle groups say additional imports would offer little relief for consumers but could erode rancher confidence as the industry begins to rebuild herds.
October 21, 2025 11:06 AM
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Understanding how these tax provisions interact will be key for farmers planning long-term equipment purchases or transfers within the family.
October 20, 2025 03:45 PM
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The government shutdown has touched nearly every sector of the ag industry since it began, and now impacts are spilling over into dairy.
October 20, 2025 12:46 PM
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