Perspective on Politics: Agriculture Can’t Afford to Stay Silent

Politics today is exhausting. It’s a world where talking about your political stance publicly can feel like walking on eggshells. In this climate, agriculture cannot remain silent. Division within the country is more pronounced than ever, and this schism, combined with misinformation and fear-based rhetoric, poses significant threats to the farming sector and global food security.

The Changing Political Landscape

Back in 2016, figures like Donald Trump seemed to truly support agriculture. He openly attended significant agricultural conventions, such as the American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual convention. It felt like genuine support. However, as we fast forward to the 2024 political scene, the landscape appears drastically changed. The concern is not limited to individuals but extends to the worrying trend of appointing uninformed leaders in key roles. This change is unnerving for several in the farming community.

The Food Fear Machine

Recently, figures like RFK Jr. have been celebrated for seemingly noble acts, like advocating the removal of harmful ingredients from foods, such as red food dyes. However, these acts can be misleading. The orchestration of such movements frequently mimics the strategy employed by figures like the Food Babe, who claims credit for changes that were already underway.

The underlying reason? Fear sells. The wellness industry, championing “natural” and “clean” products, is a vast, multi-trillion-dollar empire. Despite vilifying Big Agriculture, it’s driven by the same profit motives.

Loud Doesn’t Mean Correct

The danger lies in equating volume with truth. Many influencers with large platforms are determining agricultural policies without grounding in farming knowledge. Their advocacy for limiting crucial agricultural products—like fertilizers and seed treatments—without understanding scientific backing is particularly troubling.

We Can’t Afford to Stay Silent

Agriculture represents less than 2% of the population but produces food for everyone. Allowing silence in this sector paves the way for misinformation to thrive. Effective communication and engagement will bridge the gap between farmers and the public.

Food security transcends political affiliation. The community must work cohesively to address misinformation and policy threats to sustain the industry and the global population it supports. The agricultural narrative must be reclaimed before it’s too late.

Michelle Miller, known as Farm Babe, emphasizes education to bridge the consumer-farmer gap, advocating for understanding through direct engagement.

Sources: https://www.agdaily.com/insights/perspective-on-politics-agriculture-cant-afford-to-stay-silent/