Ari Shapiro from NPR interviewed Ann Veneman, who served as Agriculture Secretary under President George W. Bush, to discuss the dynamics between farmers and the federal government.
During National Agriculture Week, farmers expressed concerns over various challenges, including fluctuating crop prices, rising costs of farm supplies, and adverse weather conditions. These issues are compounded by uncertainties surrounding federal government policies. In particular, how President Trump’s trade tariffs might impact where they can sell their crops and the potential downsizing of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Veneman highlighted the significant impact that tariffs could have on the U.S. agriculture industry. She pointed out that China, a primary export destination for U.S. agricultural products—particularly soybeans, could stop importing from the U.S. if tariffs on soybeans are reinstated, as they were in 2018.
Discussion also focused on the USDA’s role in supporting farmers. While a significant portion of the USDA’s budget—about 70%—is allocated to nutrition assistance programs like SNAP, about 14% is dedicated to farm conservation and commodity programs, including subsidized crop insurance. Other USDA responsibilities include protecting agriculture from pests and diseases through its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Program and ensuring meat and poultry safety through the Food Safety Inspection Service.
With ongoing deliberations about potential reductions to SNAP benefits, there was concern about the implications for farmers. A program that purchases locally produced food for food banks and school lunches—valued at about one billion dollars—is already facing cuts, affecting farmers who rely on it.
The interview also explored government grants to farmers, with a specific reference to dairy farmer Travis Forgues, who experienced delays and uncertainty with his federal grants. Veneman explained that such uncertainties put farmers in difficult financial positions, especially if they have already started projects based on expected funding.
Reflecting on her tenure as agriculture secretary, Veneman shared that farmers consistently expressed a desire for market expansion globally, contrasting with the current situation where markets are being restricted.
The interview concluded with Shapiro thanking Veneman for her insights. The discussion underscored the ongoing dialogue between farmers and federal policy-makers regarding the future of U.S. agriculture.
