A recent survey from Purdue University shows farmer sentiment is slipping in rural America, and economists say today’s problems are very different than just months ago.
“Back in August, before the election, 22 percent of the respondents in the survey chose interest rate policy as one of their top concerns versus 20 percent choosing trade policy. Since the election, over 40 percent, an average of 43 percent, of the respondents to the survey have chosen trade policy as their top concern. While the percentage choosing interest rate policy as a top concern has been falling, and this month was just ten percent,” said James Mintert.
Right now, Mintert says interest rate policy is a top concern for just 10 percent of those who responded.
Corn exports are strengthening the trade outlook, but lower soybean movement and weaker demand from China remain major concerns.
Negotiators are focusing on tariffs, market access, and economic security as broader trade discussions continue.
The American Sheep Industry Association says high labor costs and volatile markets continue creating pressure for producers.
Julia Andrus with Phospholutions joins us to discuss fertilizer market uncertainty, evolving grower strategies, and how efficiency is reshaping nutrient management decisions in modern agriculture.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation continues building global relationships aimed at creating new opportunities for U.S. livestock producers
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses Canada’s record farm cash receipts, profitability trends in livestock and crops, and the impact of rising input costs in 2026.