USDA and Farmers Suffer as Government Shutdown Continues

The ongoing government shutdown is negatively impacting farmers by closing USDA offices that provide essential services, despite assurances that crop insurance will remain operational. Key GOP figures acknowledge the pain caused, but political disagreements and strategic moves, including potential layoffs and budget cuts, continue to complicate efforts to resolve the shutdown. Meanwhile, negotiations over expiring Obamacare subsidies and other funding issues are ongoing, with some bipartisan efforts emerging to find a resolution.