CALGARY, ALTA. (RFD-TV) — Democrats have won control of both chambers of Congress following the November 3 midterm elections, setting up a significant shift in Washington that could reshape the debate over agricultural policy, farm assistance and international trade.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined Market Day Report to discuss what the election results could mean for farmers, what lawmakers may accomplish before the end of the year, and how the change in political power could affect U.S.-Canada trade relations.
Farm Policy Faces Uncertainty During Transition
In his interview with RFD-TV, Haney said the immediate question is whether lawmakers can accomplish anything on agriculture before the current Congress wraps up its work.
He said policy analysts he has spoken with are not particularly optimistic about passage of a scaled-back Farm Bill during the lame-duck session. Another round of farm assistance to help address ongoing profitability challenges is also uncertain.
Haney said Republicans could try to move quickly on remaining priorities before the new Congress takes over, but the election results have created an entirely different political environment.
Beginning January 3, Democrats will control both chambers, bringing new leadership and significant turnover among lawmakers with agricultural backgrounds.
Agriculture Will Need Bipartisan Support
Haney said the loss of several agriculture-focused candidates presents challenges for farm organizations and industry advocates who will need to build relationships with a new group of lawmakers.
However, he also sees an opportunity to educate incoming members about agriculture’s importance to the rural and national economies.
He pointed to the potential for bipartisan cooperation, noting that agricultural policy has historically benefited when lawmakers from both parties work together.
“Once we get past into January, agriculture is going to need both sides of the aisle, literally and figuratively,” Haney said.
He added that farmers’ priorities remain largely unchanged, including the need for improved profitability, reliable markets and long-term solutions to rising production costs.
Trade Policy Remains a Major Question
The change in congressional control also raises questions about the future of U.S. trade policy and the impact of tariffs on agricultural exports.
Haney said recent comments from President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney offered some encouragement about the possibility of renewed negotiations.
However, he cautioned against assuming a Democratic-controlled Congress will automatically end tariffs.
“I think we need to let that play out,” Haney said.
He also noted that affordability concerns extend beyond tariffs, with fuel and other production costs still affecting farmers and consumers.
The latest Purdue University Agricultural Economy Barometer findings, he said, reflect continued concern among farmers about the negative effects of tariffs on U.S. agricultural exports.
What Farmers Should Watch Next
Haney said the next several months will better indicate how the new political landscape will affect agriculture.
He pointed to several areas to watch, including the Farm Bill, potential assistance programs, trade negotiations with Canada, and the direction of U.S. tariff policy.
He also said uncertainty surrounding international conflicts and energy markets could continue influencing agricultural costs and trade.
While the election creates new challenges for agricultural advocates, Haney said it also offers an opportunity to strengthen relationships with lawmakers and communicate producers’ needs.
