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Hirono Says 70% Farmers Can’t Afford Fertilizer, Defying USDA

5/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senator Mazie Hirono said 70% of American farmers cannot afford fertilizer, challenging the Agriculture Department’s “golden age” claim.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said 18 new trade deals and a 5% export rise in March-April support the “golden age” claim, speaking before President Donald Trump’s China trip.
The National Federation of Federal Employees sued, alleging Rollins sent Christian-promoting emails that may violate the First Amendment, while USDA has not commented.

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Story summary

Senator Mazie Hirono said 70% of American farmers cannot afford fertilizer, challenging the Agriculture Department’s “golden age” claim.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said 18 new trade deals and a 5% export rise in March-April support the “golden age” claim, speaking before President Donald Trump’s China trip.
The National Federation of Federal Employees sued, alleging Rollins sent Christian-promoting emails that may violate the First Amendment, while USDA has not commented.