The government shutdown continues, and as Washington remains deadlocked, the consequences are beginning to ripple far beyond the Capitol — reaching deep into rural America. Farmers across the country are feeling the pinch, and the pressure is mounting.
“This federal shutdown could not come at a worse time,” says American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. “Our farmers are facing a serious economic storm. Row crop prices are low, production expenses are at record highs, and markets have been severely limited by trade disputes. The shutdown adds more uncertainty for farmers, barely holding on.”
In many small farming communities, the shutdown is compounding an already difficult season. Federal agencies like the USDA are shuttered, halting critical services — including loan processing, crop reports, and subsidy payments that many growers rely on during the off-season. On top of that, farmers are still dealing with the aftershocks of international tariffs. Trade disputes — particularly with China — have slashed demand for key exports like soybeans and pork, leaving warehouses full and prices low.
Duvall adds, “International trade is important. In general, America’s farmers get 20 percent of their income from exporting goods to other countries. That’s why current trade disputes are so concerning. Just look at what’s happening with soybeans. In 2024, China booked about 12 million tons of U.S. soybeans for September to November shipment. This year, China hasn’t booked any U.S. soybean shipments for the same time period. It’s just one example of the challenges facing America’s farmers.”
In rural towns, where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, the effects go beyond the farm gate. Local businesses that depend on farmers’ spending are bracing for lean months ahead.
While Washington debates budgets and politics, many in rural America feel forgotten — caught in the crosshairs of policy fights they didn’t ask for.
For now, these communities wait — for relief, for answers, and for the shutdown to end.
