Opinion: Farmers don't need bailout checks; they need to make money by selling their crops

U.S. farming income ratio in 2024 was negative.
(Photo by Betty Haynes, Farm Progress)

Many U.S. farmers are already struggling to make ends meet as costs for equipment, labor and fertilizer remain high and crop income continues to drop. In her opinion piece for Farm Progress, Holly Spangler writes, "Grain prices are down, input prices are up, and not enough folks are buying U.S. products." Spangler shares insights on what Congress and the Trump administration can do to help farmers without sending bailout checks.

The National Corn Growers Association just "released a survey of U.S. corn growers, and nearly half — 46% — believe the U.S. is on the brink of a farm crisis," Spangler writes. "More than 75% are very or moderately concerned about the farm economy. . . . The average 2024 farm operating income ratio was negative for the first time in 30 years, and well below the five-year average of 18.2%."

Action from policy officials and Congress could help corn farmers access improved markets and better prices. Spangler explains, "Congress needs to pass the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025, which would remove an outdated provision in the Clean Air Act that restricts summertime fuel sales with 15% ethanol blends, or E15."

Soybean farmers also need robust market development since China is purchasing its soybeans from South America. Spangler notes, "The only deal to come out of last week’s U.S.-China trade talks involved TikTok, not soybeans."

While the Trump Administration and the Department of Agriculture may have plans to send farmers bailout checks, Spangler points out that this approach isn't a long-term solution. She writes, "Another bailout just produces money that flows through the farmer’s hands and back to landowners, input suppliers and equipment companies. Nobody has to lower prices when farmers can afford it."

Spangler believes farmers need to demand action from the Trump Administration and the USDA that fixes the E15 issue, passes a Farm Bill and secures trade partners. She adds, "Farmers need to make money. But they need to do it by selling crops — not by cashing another government check."