By Scout Nelson
Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, held important meetings at the White House to discuss key agricultural priorities with national leaders.
The discussions included the Government, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer, followed by a separate meeting with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
Senator Hoeven emphasized the need to support farmers and ranchers during challenging economic conditions marked by rising input costs and market uncertainties. He noted that government commitment to rural America remains strong, particularly with the announcement that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will soon resume Farm Service Agency (FSA) operations.
These services are vital for processing farm loans and delivering Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) payments to producers.
During the meeting, trade discussions focused on expanding agricultural exports and exploring new market opportunities. Secretary Bessent and Ambassador Greer shared optimism that ongoing talks with international partners, including upcoming meetings with officials in South Korea, could lead to more U.S. agricultural sales in the coming months.
Hoeven and Secretary Rollins also discussed livestock industry challenges, especially the effects of increased input costs on beef production and pricing. Hoeven stressed the need for continued policy measures that help stabilize markets and ensure fair returns for producers.
“We had a good opportunity to meet at the White House with President Trump, Secretary Bessent and Ambassador Greer, and later in the day with Secretary Rollins on the need to support our farmers and ranchers through this tough stretch,” said Hoeven. “We had productive discussions about trade, rising input cost and other challenges facing rural communities. We appreciate President Trump and his administration’s commitment to support our producers, including their announcement today that USDA will resume critical FSA services for our farmers and ranchers.”
In the coming days, Senator Hoeven plans to meet additional administration officials as Congress continues its efforts to enhance stability, promote exports, and strengthen the agricultural sector across the United States.
Photo by: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy, Livestock