Rebecca Carlson planned to use a USDA grant to hire overseas workers for her cherry harvest. A funding freeze has left her in debt and unsure whether she can hire the workers.

Summary

Michigan farmer Rebecca Carlson, a longtime Trump supporter, faces bankruptcy as Trump’s funding freezes stall a $400,000 USDA grant for hiring temporary workers.

Carlson, who hoped Trump’s second term would revive her struggling cherry farm, already spent $200,000 preparing for labor under the H-2A visa program.

With funding halted, she risks losing $200,000 more and can’t move forward with critical hires.

Trump’s new tariffs and immigration crackdowns threaten agriculture costs and labor availability, leaving farmers uncertain and frustrated with unmet promises.

  • klu9English
    12·
    3 days ago

    Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said on Friday that the department was looking into program to help “mitigate any economic catastrophes that could happen to some of our farmers.” Asked whether that would include direct payments, Rollins said, “We’re working that out right now.”

    So they’re looking into a mitigation program, they’re working out a payment system… now? After annihilating government programs, starting a trade war with everyone and wrecking farmers’ prospective income?

    Thank goodness the US Govt is now in the hands of such professional, forward-thinking people who care about ordinary Americans and businesses. Such a relief after those radical lunatics who used to run things into the ground!