While most House and Senate Agriculture Committee members successfully won their reelection bids, expect significant changes in ag leadership. This is due to the election results possibly changing the balance of power in both the House and Senate, which could shift after the final races are decided. This could also affect who has leverage for the rest of 2024.

In the meantime, no real progress has been made on farm bill reauthorization. Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow has not made any statements. She is set to retire in January.

Senator Amy Klobuchar, the incoming top senate agriculture Democrat, signaled a willingness to complete the farm deal in the lame-duck session. However, lawmakers are likely to push for a one-year farm bill extension tied to a federal funding stop-gap measure or another must-pass bill before the end of the year.

Lawmakers are seeking funding for farmers impacted by recent natural disasters. The appropriations committees must take up this aid.

On the transition front, President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team is preparing for key appointments in the Department of Agriculture. Early decisions on USDA leadership will shape the administration’s approach to pressing agricultural issues, including trade policies and domestic farm support. Trump’s previous term saw significant shifts in agriculture policy, and his team is expected to prioritize similar conservative reforms, focusing on deregulation and strengthening U.S. agriculture competitiveness globally.

As the Trump administration forms its ag policy team, international relations remain a focal point, especially with Mexico’s new president likely maintaining strict policies on genetically modified corn imports despite U.S. trade pressure. The approach taken by both nations will have far-reaching impacts on the U.S.-Mexico agricultural trade, particularly for U.S. corn producers seeking to expand their exports.

Read more about the power shift on Capital Hill here.