Jim Wiesemeyer

Jim Wiesemeyer is well known to Pro Farmer Members for his long tenure as Washington Bureau Chief for Pro Farmer. Now with agricultural consulting firm Informa Economics, formerly Sparks Companies, Inc., he is still offering his expertise and insight on farm policy, trade policy and Washington politics as a consultant to Pro Farmer. His Inside Washington Today column on AgWeb.com is a must-read item to keep up with the latest in Washington developments.

Latest Stories

FAPRI Updates Ag Baseline Projections, Painting a More Negative Picture for Soybean Prices Than USDA

In the absence of new shocks to the weather, the macroeconomy or policy, FAPRI projects prices will generally remain near current levels over the next five years.

September 12, 2024 10:30 AM

Jim Wiesemeyer

In First Forecast for FY 2025, USDA Projects A Bulging Ag Trade Deficit to Top $42 Billion

Agricultural imports are expected to reach a record $212 billion, up $8 billion from FY 2024. This increase is largely due to rising imports of horticultural products, sugar and tropical products.

September 12, 2024 10:30 AM

Jim Wiesemeyer

Farm workers plant Novavine drought-resistant grapevines in Woodland

Judge Blocks Rule Allowing H-2A Workers to Unionize in 17 States

The decision was made by U.S. District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood, who found the rule unconstitutional because it conflicted with the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) by granting collective bargaining rights to farmworkers.

September 12, 2024 10:30 AM

Jim Wiesemeyer

Judge blocks DOL rule allowing H-2A workers to unionize in 17 states

The decision was made by U.S. District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood, who found the rule unconstitutional because it conflicted with the National Labor Relations Act by granting collective bargaining rights to farmworkers.

September 12, 2024 10:30 AM

Jim Wiesemeyer

Canadian Rail Workers Are Back To Work, But With Appeal Now Planned, Major Labor Dispute Is Far From Over

Canada Industrial Relations Board orders rail workers back amid major labor dispute, union plans appeal

September 12, 2024 10:29 AM

Jim Wiesemeyer

Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago

Harris Unveils Her Economic Agenda Ahead of the DNC This Week

Democratic National Convention begins Monday in Chicago. The cost of Vice President Harris’ new proposals is uncertain, but the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB) estimates the plan would increase deficits by $1.7 trillion over the next decade.

September 12, 2024 10:29 AM

Jim Wiesemeyer

Meat Industry Urges Administration to Stop Using Meat As a Scapegoat And Distraction For Root Cause of Inflation

Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to propose several economic measures aimed at addressing key voter concerns such as housing and grocery costs with a federal ban on price gouging.

September 12, 2024 10:29 AM

Jim Wiesemeyer

Retail Industry

How Do You Know When Agriculture Is In A Recession?

Agriculture can sometimes act as a buffer during broader economic recessions, as demand for essential food items tends to remain relatively stable. However, when multiple indicators align in the industry, it can signal a recession.

September 04, 2024 02:38 PM

Jim Wiesemeyer

Farm Bill Capitol Hill Washington DC Government Legislation - Lindsey Pound

Ag Secretary Vilsack Has A Clear Message For Farm-State Lawmakers On Passing A New Farm Bill: ‘Get Realistic’

From differences within Title I of the new farm bill to possible ways both the Senate and House Ag Committee are working to find more funds, U.S. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke one-on-one with AgriTalk this week.

June 21, 2024 05:21 PM

Jim Wiesemeyer

A Contentious House Ag Committee Markup of a New $1.51 Trillion Farm Bill Passes Out of Committee

A contentious House Ag Committee markup of a new $1.51 trillion farm bill began on Thursday and ended early Friday with four Democrats joining all Republicans in voting for the measure, bringing the final tally to 33-21.

May 26, 2024 03:14 PM

Jim Wiesemeyer