Trump told his supporters to stay calm and watch America win.
A third-generation Kentucky farmer who proudly voted for President Donald Trump in 2016, 2020, and 2024 is now pleading with the Commander-in-Chief to bring a swift end to the ongoing trade conflict with China.
As President Trump pushes forward with bold tariff policies to protect American industries and stop foreign exploitation, rural America is beginning to feel the financial pressure—especially family farms. This farmer, like many across the Midwest and South, is a proud supporter of Trump’s America First agenda, but says the tariff battle with China is now directly affecting his ability to stay afloat.
“I feel the pain of these tariffs every single day,” said Caleb Ragland, president of the American Soybean Association. “My entire family’s income—and the jobs of three full-time workers—depend entirely on our farm.”
🔹 Trump’s Tariffs: A Bold Move to Reclaim U.S. Strength
Since returning to the White House, President Trump has made tariff enforcement a cornerstone of his economic strategy. By holding foreign nations accountable—especially Communist China—he aims to protect U.S. manufacturing, cut the trade deficit, and end decades of one-sided deals.
Earlier this week, Trump paused most reciprocal tariffs for 90 days—but not for China. Chinese imports are now hit with a record-high 145% tariff, while Beijing has retaliated with 125% tariffs on American goods, especially soybeans, one of the most vital exports from American farmland.
🔹 The American Farmer Speaks Out: “This Is About Survival”
Soybean exports to China account for 48% of all U.S. soybean trade, making the ongoing dispute a serious concern for farmers already battling high inflation, rising production costs, and unpredictable global markets.
In a widely shared opinion piece published in The Free Press, Ragland described the situation as “a gamble with American livelihoods.”
“This is not just about politics. It’s about American survival. We need a deal with China—sooner, not later.”
Ragland did praise President Trump’s decision to offer tariff pauses to other countries, calling it a “gesture of good faith” that shows strength without weakness. Still, he warned that prolonged deadlock with China could push Beijing toward Brazil, a growing agricultural powerhouse.
Brazil, according to recent reports, is preparing to clear up to 70 million acres of land—including parts of the rainforest—to meet China’s growing demand for soybeans and other crops.
🔹 Trump Stands Firm: “China Can No Longer Rip Us Off”
In a powerful Truth Social statement, President Trump made it clear the U.S. will not back down:
“At some point, hopefully in the near future, China will realize that the days of ripping off the U.S.A., and other Countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable.”
China’s Foreign Ministry responded with aggressive rhetoric, claiming that trade wars have no winners—but also vowed not to retreat, setting the stage for a global economic showdown.
Meanwhile, agricultural analysts and economists warn of significant trade shifts:
- Carlos Mera of Rabobank says Brazil is poised to become China’s #1 soybean supplier.
- Wheat producers in Australia and Argentina could benefit as well.
- Argentina and Paraguay may see increased demand for other key crops.
Even JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon weighed in, telling Fox Business that the global economy faces “turbulence” as nations wrestle with tariffs, inflation, and high debt.
🔹 What Happens Next: Trump Holds the Line, But Keeps Door Open
During a Cabinet meeting Thursday, President Trump said that if favorable trade deals aren’t reached within the 90-day pause, tariffs will return—stronger than ever. However, he left open the possibility of extending the deadline if progress is made.
For America’s heartland—especially conservative, hard-working farmers—the stakes couldn’t be higher. They remain fiercely loyal to President Trump and his mission to protect America’s economic independence, but they’re also asking for a tactical resolution that preserves their way of life.
⭐️ Key Takeaways for Readers:
- Trump’s tariff pause excludes China, which now faces steep duties.
- China retaliated, targeting key American exports, especially soybeans.
- American farmers are asking for relief, while remaining supportive of Trump’s America First policy.
- Brazil, Argentina, and others could take over U.S. market share if the trade standoff continues.
- Trump remains firm, promising no more unfair deals that weaken the United States.