Farm groups urge Trump to nominate Chief Ag Negotiator

Dozens of U.S. agricultural groups are urging President Donald J. Trump to nominate a Chief Agricultural Negotiator within the Office of the United States Trade Representative, warning that failure to do so could cost rural America key trade wins.

In a July 8 letter addressed to the president, 44 national organizations — including the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Corn Growers Association, and American Soybean Association — wrote that the role is crucial to “prioritize the needs of American agriculture amidst the ongoing reciprocal trade negotiations,” emphasizing that the lack of a nominee risks leaving agricultural interests underrepresented at a pivotal time.

“We are hopeful regarding the opportunities presented to secure market access in trade negotiations with countries around the world,” they wrote, adding that despite “the tariff and nontariff barriers plaguing U.S. food and agricultural exports,” they are “encouraged that your Administration is prioritizing a historic amount of trade negotiations.”

The organizations praised the Trump administration’s willingness to tackle “unfair trade practices that are distorting markets and creating supply chain vulnerabilities in the U.S. food system,” but insisted that “to ensure that meaningful progress is made, we seek the nomination and confirmation of a Chief Agricultural Negotiator.”

They pointed to the economic strain facing producers: “Farmers and ranchers are facing challenging economic conditions with low prices, high input costs, increased global competition, and languishing markets. As you know, U.S. farmers and ranchers heavily rely on exports to be successful.”

According to the letter, a dedicated agricultural negotiator would prevent “missing time-sensitive opportunities to reduce trade barriers, open new markets, and eradicate unfair trade practices.” The role, they stressed, brings “critical expertise in the full range of agricultural production, supply chain, and technical issues.”

The letter underscored that “having a dedicated political appointee focused entirely on agricultural trade issues will lead to more effective and productive negotiations, ultimately resulting in increased demand for high-quality American products.”

“We appreciate your consideration of our request,” the groups concluded, “knowing you are attuned to the needs of rural America, especially our hard-working farmers and ranchers whose livelihoods are strengthened by these opportunities.”

The letter was also sent to key administration officials and Congressional leaders, including USTR Jamieson Greer, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, and Senate and House agriculture and trade committee chairs and ranking members.

Organizations signing the letter represent nearly every corner of the agricultural economy — from corn, soybeans, cotton, and dairy to lentils, apples, and spirits. Their message was clear: U.S. agriculture needs a dedicated voice at the negotiating table now more than ever.