Bob Bragg

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.

Livestock producers, especially beef operations, see record profits in 2025, while crop farmers struggle with low returns, trade disputes, and echoes of the 1980s farm debt crisis. Economists warn of long-term risks as tariffs and high input costs squeeze margins.

The USDA projects a $47B agricultural trade deficit for 2025, sparking concerns about long-term trends and data transparency. Meanwhile, the Great Western Ranch sold in New Mexico, highlighting surging land values, and Congress remains stalled on passing a new Farm Bill.

The 2018 Farm Bill remains stalled as extensions drag on, leaving U.S. farmers facing uncertainty. Tariffs, volatile corn and soybean prices, and rising input costs threaten profitability into 2026, while global trade shifts cut U.S. access to key markets.

USDA forecasts record corn yields, but tariffs and trade wars drive a $29B farm trade deficit, straining U.S. producers already facing low prices.

USDA staff moves, trade uncertainty, and rising costs raise concern for U.S. farmers, while land values climb in every state. Here's the latest ag update.

U.S. cattle herd hits a 50-year low; beef prices climb while USDA relocates staff and faces criticism over agency disruptions.

Beef prices climb, farm bankruptcies rise, and tariff threats loom as the U.S. nominates a new Chief Agricultural Negotiator.

Farm labor shortages, trade tensions with Mexico, and falling export values paint a grim picture for U.S. agriculture in 2025, as prices and pressure on producers continue to rise.

President Trump signed a sweeping tax and spending bill boosting farm subsidies and defense spending, but slashing social programs, sparking sharp debate in Washington.