[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″ el_class=”section section1″][vc_column_text]After visiting a farming convention to see how the shutdown may be affecting federal employees, President Trump holds firm in his reasoning for funding the border wall. During his visit to the American Farm Bureau Federation convention in New Orleans, President Trump cited a ‘humanitarian crisis’ as the main reason and noted how he is passionate about the ‘wall’ and ‘barrier.’
With the US Department for Agriculture currently restricted in its operation, it took Trump just short of 30 minutes to address the shutdown and offer farmers support; he noted how the USDA would continue to do ‘everything in its power.’
For many farmers, it has been difficult with the suspension of crop payments, as well as loan applications going unprocessed. However, Trump said he was a ‘friend of the farmer’ and suggested they should focus their efforts on lobbying the Democrats in Congress to back his plans for the wall.
Desperation for Farmers
For the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), they had one thing on their mind – the reopening of the federal government. So far, farmers around the country have had no access to assistance programs thus rendering the new farm bill redundant. Jeff Witte, President of NASDA, said that problems would only get worse for farmers as the shutdown continues.
For the National Farmers Union, their Twitter account has been updating the world with real stories of how the shutdown is affecting lives. After opening a special hotline, they said stories had been ‘pouring in’ whether it’s farmers unable to renegotiate a loan, unable to access disaster assistance or even people with decades of experience facing foreclosure.
Farmers on Trump’s Trade Policies
While speaking to the Farm Bureau, Trump touched upon his trade agenda; another area of concern for many farmers. With trade wars against certain countries, including China, alongside new tariffs, the whole farming industry seems to be united against these policies. Along with other concerns, the actions have increased the prices of numerous agricultural products that farmers rely on to make a living.
For Trump, he believes his trade agreements can offer farmers more business; especially with the proposed agreements with both Canada and Mexico. With trade barriers removed, President Trump suggests US farmers may see an increase in their exports. However, this is all still speculation as the agreement between the US, Canada, and Mexico hasn’t yet passed through the Senate – Trump has already requested quick approval from lawmakers.
Despite potential positive relations with these two countries, things haven’t been so pleasant with China and the European Union. Above all else, Trump believes the ‘trade tactics’ of both have been unfair.
Proposals and Hope
Is there hope for the farming industry? Towards the end of the speech, President Trump said those who rely on migrant workers won’t have to worry since they’ll have easier passage than ever into the country. Furthermore, he applauded the work of farmers, says the administration is fighting for them, and noted how farmers had ‘always led the way.’[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”27872″ img_size=”292×285″ style=”vc_box_shadow”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
