Mixed Reactions to the Passage of the “One Big, Beautiful Bill”

After a narrow vote of 218-214, the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” is on its way to President Trump for his signature, prompting an array of responses from agriculture leaders and organizations as the holiday weekend approaches.

Federal Agriculture Leaders Respond

Ranking Member Angie Craig

House Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig (D-MN-02) criticized the legislation as “disgraceful.” In a statement, she expressed concern that the bill would hurt rural communities and farmers:

“Today marks a grave turning point for our country, one which leaves rural communities and farmers behind, and places us on the road toward increased hunger, less prosperity, and fewer opportunities for working families.”

She also enumerated specific concerns, including:

• Reductions in SNAP benefits
• Increased hunger among vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and veterans
• High error rate rewards for states
• Threats to farm revenue and rural grocers

State Agriculture Leaders Offer Insight

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig

Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, hailed the passage of the bill as a significant win, stating:

“This legislation delivers permanent tax relief, enhanced exemptions, and provisions to strengthen crop insurance amid uncertainty in the ag economy.”

Naig urged Congress to focus on finalizing a comprehensive five-year farm bill to further assist producers in managing risk.

Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller

Sid Miller, Texas Commissioner of Agriculture, labeled the bill a historic achievement that ensures that “hardworking individuals are recognized rather than penalized,” adding:

“It guarantees their efforts and labor are rewarded…”

Miller emphasized the bill’s investments in rural healthcare and how it will secure the future of family farms.

National Advocacy Groups React

American Farm Bureau Federation

President Zippy Duvall stated that the bill brings much-needed certainty to farmers, underscoring its critical role in modernizing farm safety net programs:

“More than half of farmers are losing money, so an increase in reference prices is desperately needed.”

National Farmers Union

Rob Larew, President of the National Farmers Union, acknowledged the positive aspects while warning of harmful trade-offs:

“However, these gains are paired with harmful tradeoffs. Cuts to SNAP divide the farm bill coalition…”

National Corn Growers Association

President Kenneth Hartman, Jr. highlighted that the legislation reflects key priorities for corn growers, including tax provisions that support their operations:

“We appreciate the members of Congress who worked to ensure our views and these provisions were included in the final bill.”

### Additional National Perspectives

Several other organizations, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the National Association of Wheat Growers, also expressed their approval, highlighting long-awaited investments and tax provisions.

In conclusion, while reactions to the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” vary widely across the agricultural spectrum, both supporters and critics agree that the impact of this legislation will shape the future landscape of American agriculture. Discussions surrounding the pending comprehensive farm bill will undoubtedly continue as leaders work to address the evolving challenges facing rural communities.

Note: This article has been edited for style and clarity.