The 2020 election is quickly approaching. As citizens in a democracy, it is not only a privilege but a responsibility to vote. Furthermore, it's extremely important to make an informed decision when voting.
In such a critical time for the agriculture industry, it is important to understand where our presidential candidates stand on agricultural issues.
President Donald Trump:
"My administration is fighting for the American farmer and has been fighting for the farmer and rancher every single day."
Vice President Joe Biden:
“As president, Biden will build a pathway to the middle class for rural Americans, in rural America.” – Biden Campaign
Here are some highlights of the agricultural policy positions of Republican candidate, President Donald Trump and Democratic candidate, former Vice President Joe Biden:
President Donald Trump (R)
- On June 6, 2019, President Trump signed the disaster relief bill that provided $19 billion in assistance to states and territories hit by flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters, including farmers hit by a delayed planting season.
- President Trump signed the 2018 Farm Bill which legalized the production of industrial Hemp, expanded crop insurance, doubled how much farmers could borrow, and helped open new markets for farmers.
- The current Administration has invested $900 million toward improved and preserved rural electric infrastructure.
- The current Administration has expanded markets for U.S. wheat exporters in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has provided more than $1 billion to improve access to health care for rural communities.
- The Trump Administration distributed more than 5 million food boxes in an effort to support American farmers and families who have been affected by the Coronavirus.
Former Vice President Joe Biden (D)
- Former Vice President Joe Biden is looking to revitalize rural economies by developing regional food systems, strengthen anti-trust enforcement, invest in green infrastructure, expand bio-based manufacturing, and promote ethanol and the next generation of biofuels.
- The Biden Administration plans to invest $20 billion in rural broadband infrastructure and triple funding to expand broadband access in rural areas.
- The Biden Administration will prioritize investing in land grant universities’ agriculture research programs.
- The Biden Administration plans to invest in diverse farmers to build a more diverse agriculture industry and will ensure USDA assistance to anyone who wants to farm.
- As part of his campaign, former Vice President Biden is proposing a large expansion of an existing conservation program aimed at paying farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices, especially those that help sequester carbon in the soil.
- Former Vice President Joe Biden wants to offer more support to beginning farmers and plans to expand upon the Obama-Biden Administration’s microloan program for new farmers.
For a side-by-side comparison of both candidate's postions on trade, water policy, environmental regulations and climate change, click here.
By Michelle Sutton, NAWG 2020 Fall Intern
