Bob Bragg

The Trump administration has announced a $12 billion aid package for U.S. farmers to offset tariff-related losses, but some farm-state lawmakers and specialty crop producers say more help may be needed.

Federal farm aid is expanding as USDA distributes emergency payments, announces a new $12 billion bridge program, and moves to prevent a screwworm fly invasion that could threaten U.S. livestock.

Ag economists are divided on whether expected USDA trade aid will help producers or create new risks, as farmers face low prices, high input costs, and market volatility.

The American Farm Bureau says the cost of a Thanksgiving meal for 10 is down 5% from last year, as turkey prices fall and weather-driven crop issues push some vegetable costs higher.

Drought, shrinking herds, high feed and energy costs, and slow herd rebuilding are driving beef prices higher, with impacts likely to last through the decade.

This week’s Farm News & Views covers trade aid for U.S. farmers, rising global competition in ag markets, and renewed wolf concerns in western Colorado.

Observers say the trade truce between the U.S. and China could hold for now, easing tensions for global markets and U.S. soybean farmers — but challenges remain. While China’s purchases have pushed soybeans to a 16-month high, Brazil still has a cost advantage, and U.S. farmers continue to face high input prices and labor shortages tied to immigration policies. Meanwhile, new innovations like virtual fencing are helping ranchers adapt to tough conditions on public lands.

In this week’s Farm News & Views Report, Bob Bragg discusses backlash from U.S. beef producers after former President Donald Trump announced plans to loan Argentina $40 billion in exchange for Argentine beef imports aimed at lowering U.S. beef prices. Ranchers and industry experts warn the proposal could harm domestic producers, poses potential animal health risks, and is unlikely to provide meaningful relief to consumers.

Farm organizations are warning that America’s agricultural economy is sliding toward crisis levels reminiscent of the 1980s, as low crop prices, high input costs, and ongoing trade disputes squeeze producers. The American Farm Bureau Federation has urged federal leaders to authorize bridge payments and enact long-term solutions to stabilize farm incomes, while analysts note that diversified farms and livestock producers are faring better thanks to strong markets.

Farm economists say the U.S. ag economy is in recession, as trade wars, high costs, and lost exports to China deepen uncertainty for farmers.