What does Trump’s spending freeze mean for farmers? Ag lawmakers want answers

Ag lawmakers are asking questions this week over President Trump’s spending freeze and what it means for farmers. Some groups say they are now out millions of dollars.

Senate Ag Committee Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar and other democrats have written USDA, asking for details about how the freeze impacts farmers and ranchers. DTN reports the Iowa Soybean Association has sent letters to lawmakers, warning $11 million is at stake for their growers.

The spending freeze is currently held up in the courts. The Trump Administration says the pause is only temporary as the Administration works to get rid of wasteful spending.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farmers who rely on H-2A workers will see a few key changes to speed up the process and make it fairer. On the ground, producers say labor issues create shortfalls in otherwise productive harvests.
John Appel with the Farmers Business Network (FBN) joins us for a closer look at the 2026 Crop Protection Market Outlook Report.
Industry leaders representing more than 40 nations gathered to discuss the future of ethanol and other corn-based products.
Farmers display a unique optimism — planting with the expectation that weather, basis, and prices will improve by harvest — asserting that the profession is an identity, not just a job.
A fast-moving series of trade signals from the White House and key partners is resetting the near-term outlook for U.S. agriculture.