Agri-Pulse DriveTime

Scouts on the Pro Farmer Crop tour have discovered drought and disease pressure in both corn and soybean crops. While corn yields may still achieve records, the USDA WASDE forecast appears higher than some believe is realistic.

Agri-Pulse features articles today on how tariffs on ag inputs may lead to ever higher prices for farmers. A draft from the MAHA Commission appears to be more tolerant of advanced farming technologies. Some fear regulations on cumulative exposure may be on the horizon.

The American Soybean Association pressed the Trump administration to bring a conclusion to the trade conflict with China and bring the top buyer back to the US market for soybean supplies. ASA President Caleb Ragland responds to challenges from the MAHA Commission.

The USDA says corn and soybean crops continue to advance in maturity with a majority of acres in good to excellent condition.  Crop scouts on the Pro Farmer Crop Tour saw excellent yield potential in South Dakota with signs of heat stress in both Ohio and Indiana.

Today's DriveTime highlights comments of this week's Agri-Pulse Newsmakers filmed on location at Minnesota's Farmfest 2025.  Senate Ag Ranking Member Amy Kloubuchar and House Ag Ranking Member Angie Craig comment on the USDA reorganization plan and the prospects of a "skinny" farm bill.

President Trump fills a vacancy on the Fed Board and legislators introduce legislation to make it easier for consumers to use E-15 blended fuel.

President Trump continues to levy tariffs on trading partners. Brazil, India and China are the latest to feel pressure from the Oval Office. One country may seek help from the WTO. The U.S. continues to negotiate with Russia to end the 3 year war with Ukraine.

The U.S. trade deficit narrowed in June. Corn based ethanol exports are running 19% ahead of a year ago while biodiesel exports are more than 50% behind last year's pace.  USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden says top ag department officials would stay in Washington, but those who implement programs would likely be in one of five regional USDA hubs.

Commodity groups are encouraged with Luke Lindberg's confirmation as USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agriculture Affairs. Corn prices fall to the lowest mark since the fall of 2020 and the stock market rallies higher.

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins responds to questions regarding the Trump administration's reorganization plan. Rollins says the plan will provide cost savings and better service to customers. Rollins responds to farmer pushback on the MAHA Commission.