The U.S. Farm System Can’t Stand on Its Own Anymore

Image by Gozha Net.

Trump’s new $12 billion aid package is being described as relief for farmers caught in a tense trade relationship with China. The surface explanation hides the real issue. Federal policy damaged the farm economy and the government is sending money to cover the consequences, with $11 billion of the total set aside for one-time payments.

USDA will distribute the money through a new program designed to give the appearance of fresh policy even though the pattern is familiar.