The America First Policy Institute has launched Farmers First Agenda, an extensive policy initiative designed to strengthen U.S. agriculture, support farmers and ranchers, and revitalize rural economies. The plan, announced on April 16, outlines measures to increase trade opportunities, reduce federal regulations, and address challenges facing America’s heartland.
AFPI, a conservative think tank based in Washington, DC, said the agenda builds on its earlier report, "The State of the Farm Economy," released earlier this year. The organization has assembled a team of agriculture experts to lead the effort, including Christie Mullin, a cattle rancher and wife of U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), who will serve as Chair of Rural Policy. She is joined by Ambassador Kip Tom, an Indiana farmer and former U.S. Ambassador to UN food and agriculture agencies, as Vice Chair. Also joining are Sarah Frey as Senior Advisor for Rural Policy and Tate Bennett as Director of Rural Policy.
“As a mother of six and someone who lives the ranch life every day, I understand how decisions in Washington impact our families and futures,” said Christie Mullin. “This agenda is about ensuring that rural America isn’t left behind.”
The Farmers First Agenda focuses on key priorities, including reversing an agricultural trade deficit — projected to hit $49 billion this year — and rolling back environmental regulations that farmers say have driven up costs. The plan also aims to expand international markets for U.S. crops and livestock while promoting policies to improve rural health outcomes.
The initiative has garnered support from more than a dozen state agriculture commissioners, including Texas’s Sid Miller, Georgia’s Tyler Harper, and Iowa’s Mike Naig. In a jointly signed op-ed, the officials praised President Trump’s early moves to cut regulations and secure new trade deals, calling AFPI’s agenda a critical step in rebuilding rural prosperity.
With Congress set to debate the 2025 Farm Bill and key tax provisions expiring soon, AFPI’s push comes at a pivotal moment for agriculture policy. The organization says it will release additional policy recommendations in the coming months, positioning itself as a key advocate for rural America in Washington.
“Farmers don’t need more bureaucracy — they need freedom to compete,” said Tom. “This agenda gives them the tools to do just that.”
For further details on the Farmers First Agenda, visit AFPI’s website.
