A West Virginia Senator has a strong message to consumers: “Stop taking farmers for granted.” Senator Jim Justice says a farm crisis has been brewing for some time now and warns it is coming to a head.
“Absolutely, we’re taking advantage of our small family farms, beyond belief. If you want a mile-long food in the grocery stores and pay 14 percent or whatever it is of your annual income towards food, quit taking advantage of these people, and quit taking ‘em for granted.”
Senator Justice says something has to be done to get younger farmers back to the farm. One researcher tells lawmakers that it is the largest issue right now.
“In 2025, more people will turn 65 than in any year in history. For every potential leader aged 35 to 50, two are preparing to retire. In agriculture, where many senior leaders have been in place for decades, this creates an acute succession challenge. And the next generation of leaders, especially those with agricultural backgrounds, is smaller than ever,” said Aaron Locker.
Locker and Senator Justice are both calling for a five-year Farm Bill. They also say more money is needed for ag research and career promotion.
The federal government’s status is far from the only factor moving the markets on Friday. Two critical reports released today on producer inflation and the status of the U.S. cattle herd are also top of mind.
January 30, 2026 12:51 PM
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The changing political climate in America is leading to a drop in migrant crossings near the U.S.-Mexico border, where ranchers like Dr. Mike Vickers say they witnessed horrors from death to child trafficking.
January 30, 2026 11:47 AM
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Record milk output looks strong today, but shrinking replacement numbers mean future supply adjustments could be faster and more volatile.
January 30, 2026 11:44 AM
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A rapidly intensifying winter storm is expected to develop into a bomb cyclone this weekend, affecting the Southeast, southern Virginia, and potentially parts of the mid‑Atlantic and New England.
January 30, 2026 10:52 AM
Brent Graves of StockShowAuctions.com takes us to Grayson County to see the damage from a historic winter ice storm and what it will take to rebuild.
January 30, 2026 09:32 AM
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Strong blending demand continues to support ethanol use even as production and exports fluctuate.
January 30, 2026 07:00 AM
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