AFBF - American Farm Bureau Federation

01/20/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 01/20/2026 16:17

Farm Bureau Urges Congress to Act on Farm Economy

Brian Glenn

Director, Government Affairs

Chad Smith

Associate News Service Editor, NAFB

The American Farm Bureau Federation is sounding the alarm on the economic crisis in rural America. Chad Smith has the details.

Smith: The farm economy continues to struggle in 2026, and farm groups are calling on Congress to act. Brian Glenn, director of government affairs for the American Farm Bureau Federation, said many farmers are under water financially.
Glenn: Farmers are facing extreme economic pressure right now. They're dealing with low commodity prices, elevated input costs, and ongoing market uncertainty, and this sustained pressure has led to losses approaching $100 billion nationwide, across the farm economy.
Smith: Glenn said farmers and ranchers are grateful for the economic assistance in the Farmer Bridge Assistance program, but it's only a first step. The Farm Bureau led a coalition in sending a letter to Congressional leaders outlining the need.
Glenn: We called on Congress to act immediately to provide economic support to fill in the gap of remaining losses. And, in addition to short term assistance, Congress must pass year-round E15, which will support the farm economy and long-term farm viability.
Smith: Farm Bureau members have sent over 12,000 urgent messages to Congress outlining the severity of the situation, and Glenn said keep those messages coming.
Glenn: As lawmakers consider the government funding package by month's end, it is critically important that they continue to hear from farmers across the country about these priority issues, the need for economic assistance and year-round E15.
Smith: Send a message to your elected officials today by visiting fb.org/action-center. Chad Smith, Washington.
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