American agriculture is facing significant challenges under the Biden-Harris administration, with farmers struggling due to soaring costs and a lack of new trade deals. Fertilizer, seed, feed, diesel, and labor costs have all doubled since President Biden took office, making it difficult for farmers to stay afloat. The current administration has faced criticism for not being aggressive enough in helping farmers, despite releasing $2 billion in direct assistance to minority farm owners. The aging population of farmers is a major concern, with a whole generation of young people having skipped out on working in the family agricultural business.
The Nebraska Farmers Network was formed to address issues fueling the farm crisis, including the failures of big government and the increasing presence of global investment in American farmland. Foreign nations and wealthy investors have been purchasing millions of acres of farmland, viewing it as an investment rather than for its production value. This trend has led to higher taxes and pricing farmland out of reach for traditional farmers, threatening the future of agriculture in the U.S. The Biden administration has been criticized for not taking a more proactive stance on addressing these challenges.
The crisis in farming is causing a traditionally Democratic voting bloc to consider other options, with some farmers expressing support for the Trump campaign. Farmers like John Boyd of the National Black Farmers Association feel that the current administration is not doing enough to support American farmers and that both campaigns need to outline plans for the future of farming. Boyd acknowledges that his demographic group has historically voted Democrat but believes that the Trump campaign has an opportunity to make a play for their support by addressing the issues facing farmers in America.
There is a growing concern among farmers that foreign investment in American farmland may have ulterior motives beyond simply making money in real estate. Supporters of Trump in Nebraska fear that this trend could lead to a loss of control over food production in the country, echoing sentiments expressed by Henry Kissinger that controlling food means controlling people. Regardless of who is in office, farmers are calling for stronger support and protection of American farmland and those who work it. The ongoing crisis in American agriculture highlights the existential threat to the industry and the need for decisive action to ensure its survival and stability. The future of farming in America hangs in the balance, with farmers expressing uncertainty and concern about the path forward.
