One potential win for local farmers is the Democratic party’s focus on supporting small and medium-sized farms. They tend to favor policies that create better access to local and regional markets, helping farmers who want to sell directly to consumers (like we do here at Dude Food!). They also push for more local food programs that aim to reduce dependence on large agribusinesses. Programs like these help keep American farmers competitive, but they could also lead to greater competition if larger businesses adapt more quickly to changing regulations.
For example, under the USDA’s Local Food Promotion Program (backed by Democratic policies), small farmers have been able to expand their reach, boosting sales and keeping more money in local economies. The flipside? Some dudes argue that the emphasis on smaller farms can lead to over-regulation and red tape, which hits smaller farmers harder than big corporate players.