When asked about the administration’s calls for patience, Ragland emphasized the time-sensitive nature of the crisis. Farmers are “planning a crop that looks like it will be produced at a loss,” and without market improvements before harvest, the situation will deteriorate further.
The urgency reflects the seasonal nature of agricultural markets. As harvest approaches and storage facilities fill with unsold grain, prices typically face additional downward pressure. Without resolution soon, farmers may be forced to sell their crops at deeply discounted prices or face expensive storage costs through the winter months.
Ragland framed the crisis in terms of national strength: “We want to keep this nation strong. We’re the backbone of America,” he said.
Despite acknowledging that he believes Trump “loves farmers” and is “trying to do what’s right for this country,” he emphasized the need for immediate action: “We gotta make sure that we survive through these tough times.”
