Rep. McClain Delaney Introduces Bill to Support American Farmers Harmed by the President’s Trade War
Rep. McClain Delaney Introduces Bill to Support American Farmers Harmed by the President’s Trade War
Bill Would Redirect $20 Billion for Argentina and Reinvest it in American Farmers Struggling Under Rising Tariffs
WASHINGTON, D.C.–This week, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (D-MD) introduced the American Farmers First Act, legislation that would support American farmers who are facing devastating losses due to the President’s ongoing trade war. Specifically, this bill would redirect the Administration’s bailout payments to Argentina back into American farm country, providing direct relief to producers hit hardest by tariffs and shrinking export markets.
U.S. farmers are struggling to break even during the 2025 harvest as tariffs raise operating costs and cut demand for American crops. For example, in Maryland, nearly 13,000 families are involved in soybean farming which produces 16 million bushels annually and contributes $200 million to the state’s economy. Yet, their livelihoods are at risk, as U.S. soybean exports have dropped by more than half as China turns to competitors in Argentina and Brazil. U.S. cattle producers were also slighted by the President recently when he pledged increase imports of Argentinian beef, an action that would only put American cattlemen at a disadvantage.
Meanwhile, the Administration is providing a $40 billion aid package to Argentina, half funded by American taxpayers, a move usually reserved for economic disasters. The American Farmers First Act would redirect $20 billion from the Treasury Department’s Exchange Stabilization Fund slated for Argentina to provide essential aid to American farmers and producers who have been adversely impacted by the tariffs.
“I’ve visited farms and met directly with producers across Maryland’s 6th District, and nearly all tell me the same thing: these tariffs are crushing our farms and destabilizing our economy,” said Congresswoman McClain Delaney. “Prioritizing international competitors insults the hardworking Americans who feed our nation. By redirecting these corrupted funds, we’re investing in domestic agriculture and standing up for those who keep America’s food supply strong.”
Co-sponsors include: Houlahan (D-PA), Ivey (D-MD), Mannion (D-NY), Mfume (D-MD), Riley (D-NY), Salinas (D-OR), Stevens (D-MI).