Tariffs Backfire on Farmers as GOP Faces Rural Warning Signs

Trump’s tariff strategy aims to boost farm exports and justify $12B in direct aid, but Purdue data show farmer sentiment deteriorating (lowest since 2024), 44% say operations are worse off, and 15,000 fewer farms in 2025 with a 46% jump in bankruptcies, pressuring rural Republicans to push more aid, market access, and a new farm policy ahead of the 2026 midterms. Democrats say farmers are hurting, while many trade deals remain unfinished, limiting relief despite the administration’s claims.