Agri-Pulse DriveTime

Soybean and soybean oil prices fell on fears that export sales would fall without a tariff agreement with China and rumors of reduced federal support for renewable fuels by the Trump EPA. 

Proposed budget reconciliation legislation would provide much needed tax benefits for small business and farmers, but would reduce overall nutrition assistance as well as shift some of the expense for SNAP benefits to states based on error rates. 

The Consumer Price Index suggest grocery prices fell in April while the cost of eating out rose. The renewable fuel industry is encouraged by a potential extension of the 45Z tax credit under consideration in the tax reconciliation package. 

The USDA May WASDE report indicated large crops and tighter ending stocks than traders expected.  Agrochemical makers received legislative protection in another state over pesticide labels. 

President Trump's trade tactics have brought the Chinese to the negotiating table. John Bode with the Corn Refiners Association applauds legislation to assist the bioeconomy. 

The Trump administration announced a trade agreement with the United Kingdom. Farm groups celebrated the victory. The nation's corn growers want Trump to focus on market access to India. 

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn Thompson and Ranking Member Angie Craig  disagree on using reconciliation to approve a portion of farm programs. Craig says she can deliver votes for a full five year farm bill. 

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins told farm broadcasters the department's downsizing plan would be released next week. Rollins said President Trump would soon be announcing new global trade agreements. 

Agriculture leaders shared their goals for a new farm bill and updated tax policy with the nation's farm broadcasters this afternoon in Washington. 

President Trump's proposed budget for 2026 points to continued downsizing of some government agencies and programs. One Maine Democrat says SNAP funds are off limits for upgrading farm programs.

Farm policy makers on Capitol Hill are searching for options in a challenging legislative landscape to update portions of farm policy.  NCBA's Ethan Lane says they're pleased with an agreement between the U.S. and Mexico to keep a dangerous pest south of the border. 

Budget Reconciliation will apparently be a vehicle of change for farm and nutrition programs.  Next week's markup could bring changes to the farm safety net, crop insurance and nutrition programs. 

Land O' Lakes President and CEO Beth Ford chairs the Business Roundtable Immigration Committee. Ford says tax reform, a farm bill and adequate farm workers are top priorities. 

Today the EPA announced a waiver for E-15 blended fuel for the Summer driving season. Renewable fuel supporters welcome the news but still hope for a legislative fix this year. 

Iowa Senator Charles Grassley is keeping an eye on USDA downsizing saying farmers must not suffer a loss of service. The Modern Ag Alliance celebrates a victory this week in North Dakota. 

Chinese spokespersons today suggested no negotiations are underway between the two nations. A federal appeals court denied environmental groups petition for EPA CAFO regulations. 

President Trump's Tariff war is impacting the bottom line of soybean farmers. ASA CEO Steve Censky hopes near term pain leads to long term gains for the industry. 

Many farmers celebrated Earth Day by stepping up the planting pace for the 2025 crop. Agriculture and other industry groups are hoping for meaningful changes to Washington's WOTUS definition. 

Vice President Vance and India Prime Minister Modi discussed trade issues between the two countries today in New Delhi. 

Ag policy veteran Chuck Conner says the Trump administration needs time to see the result of trade negotiations spurred by increased tariffs. Conner sees hope from at least some farm policy reform this year. 

Challenges to President Trump's tariff strategy are coming from the U.S. and around the globe. Meanwhile progress is reported from negotiations with key trading partners. 

California Governor Gavin Newsome sued the Trump Administration today challenging the president's authority to impose tariffs. Iowa Senator Charles Grassley said the Trump trade tactics need time to play out. 

Oklahoma Congressman Frank Lucas is this week's guest on Open Mic. Today we highlight his comments on the budget process, a new farm bill and nutrition programs. 

USDA's NASS reports planting progress lags last year's pace as wheat condition declines. Some Biden era climate programs are coming to a close at USDA. 

Trump optimistic on a trade deal with China. Democratic Senators want information on the downside of tariffs for the nation's farmers and ranchers.