In his first term, Trump initiated a trade conflict with China that severely impacted the agriculture sector. Despite the hardships experienced, it seems the farming community has not fully absorbed the lessons of that period. As the 2024 election approached, farmers appeared to repeat similar choices, only facing worse conditions this time around.
Trump’s tariffs and trade disputes had already strained farmers. Yet, he secured nearly 78% of the farming communities’ vote in 2024, subsequently expressing his gratitude by dismantling USAID and reducing SNAP benefits.
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Recent findings from a survey by the American Farm Bureau Federation indicate worsening conditions for American farmers:
Conducted between April 3-11, the survey reveals that 70% of farmers report fertilizer costs are so steep they cannot afford the necessary amounts.
This survey involved over 5,700 farmers, including both members and non-members of the Farm Bureau, across all states and Puerto Rico. The Farm Bureau’s economists have evaluated these findings in the latest Market Intel report.
The data shows that close to 80% of the farmers in the southern U.S. cannot afford all the supplies they need this year. This issue extends to 69% in the Northeast and 66% in the West, with the Midwest at 48%.
Only 19% of Southern farmers secured fertilizer purchases ahead of planting season. The Northeast saw 30% pre-booking, the West 31%, while the Midwest had the highest at 67%. Despite these rates, nearly one-third of Midwestern farmers still lack full fertilizer supplies as the season begins.
The adverse impacts of Trump’s trade policies on his own supporters might prove more damaging than during his prior administration.
