Agri-Pulse DriveTime

Iowa Senator Joni Ernst supports the Trump USDA reorganization plan.  Ernst says many of the provisions are in line with legislation she's already introduced in the Upper Chamber.  The Iowa ag leader also has legislation to limit state attempts to mandate production standards for livestock production.

The Senate Agriculture Committee's hearing on the USDA reorganization plan drew a sharp contrast of opinion today between political leaders and Deputy Secretary Judge Stephen Vaden. The Deputy Secretary said the proposed downsizing was smaller than previous administrations and was based on legislation previously approved by Congress.

Iowa Senator Charles Grassley doesn't agree with the Trump administration's release of plans to reform the USDA, but says the Executive Branch has the authority to make changes to the agency. Grassley doesn't see much chance for a new farm bill this year.

The Trump administration announced a trade deal with the European Union yesterday.  Meanwhile, talks with China continue to hold promise. US corn condition declined and soybeans improved as more of the crop moves deeper into the reproductive phase of growth.

President Trump is pessimistic on a trade deal with Canada but will hold meetings with the EU while in Scotland. The Senate Ag Committee will review the USDA Reorganization plan next week.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the first phase of a major reorganization of the agency today. Senate Agriculture Committee leaders Boozman and Klobuchar rebuked the effort and plan a hearing on the plan.

Agri-Pulse's Phil Brasher examines what states may benefit from additional base acres in the Budget Reconciliation Law. The Trump administration cancels loan guarantees for the Grain Belt Express.

Members of the United Soybean Board, American Soybean Association and the U.S. Soybean Export council presented today in Brazil at a meeting of the International Oilseed Producers Association. ASA President Caleb Ragland responds to challenges raised by the MAHA Committee report.

National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman says grower leaders made their case for legislation to approve year around sales of E-15, a new farm bill and greater access to global markets last week with legislators on Capitol Hill.

John Bode with the Corn Refiners Association says a shift in ingredients by a major cola company would bring negative consequences for corn farmers and his industry. A possible rail industry merger is prompting concern in the ag industry on both service and fees.