By Jamie Martin
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election heats up, agricultural issues have moved to the forefront, with candidates focusing on policies that could influence the sector's future.
Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are sharpening their agricultural policies to appeal to rural and farming communities.
Harris, despite her limited direct engagement with farm policies as California's Attorney General, proposes combating food price inflation by banning price gouging in the meat industry and enhancing competition in the food sector. She emphasizes creating a fair market by scrutinizing big food corporation mergers and acquisitions.
Trump, on the other hand, aims to reduce farm production costs and deregulate the industry to lower consumer prices. He has promised to slash farm energy costs and rollback regulations that he claims inflate supply costs.
Both candidates differ sharply on farm labor and immigration. Harris supports expanding legal immigration to benefit the economy and the agricultural sector, coupled with strong border security and a path to citizenship.
Trump's focus remains on merit-based immigration, reducing dependence on foreign labor by strengthening domestic agriculture.
Regarding climate policies, Harris is pushing for the U.S. to lead in climate-smart agriculture with a goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Trump counters by advocating for deregulation and a free-market approach to environmental issues, proposing to rollback administration climate policies.
The candidates also differ on biofuels and trade relations with China. Harris supports expanding biofuel production and diversifying export markets, while Trump focuses on aggressive tariffs and reviving trade deals to prioritize American products.
As the election nears, these contrasting visions on agriculture will play a significant role in shaping voter decisions in key states, making farm policy a critical battleground in the 2024 race.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National