Good afternoon,

As American soybean farmers struggle to sell their crops amid President Trump's trade war with China, Argentina's soybean exports have skyrocketed as Chinese importers purchased millions of tons of the crop. Through this deal, China has secured more than half of their near-term soybean needs from South America. This news comes days after the Trump administration agreed to provide Argentina with a $20 billion financial package. The Trump administration has massively cut funding for vital programs that serve Americans at home, yet showed no hesitation about bailing out Argentina.

Here are a few important updates...

TRIBAL BUDGET THREATENED

Native American and Alaska Native nations are at risk of losing nearly half of the $1.19 billion allocated under Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" by 2025. Research from Portland State University indicates that these significant cuts would have a widespread impact on tribal communities. Key losses include reduced access to clean water, affordable housing, transportation, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Additionally, the federal cuts will alarmingly foster distrust among Indigenous communities regarding the government's commitment to protecting tribal sovereignty and preserving treaty resources.

Earlier this year, the bill cut funding for clean energy projects, negatively affecting over 100 tribes. Many renewable energy initiatives managed by tribes now risk losing tax credits if not fully completed by next year, despite insufficient funding. These financial losses will impact not only Native communities but also surrounding rural areas, especially in terms of infrastructure. Addressing tribal budget issues is an urgent priority for rural America.

 
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THE NEED FOR UNIVERSAL CHILDCARE

A new poll found that recent expansions of childcare tax credits are very popular with both rural Democrats and Republicans. Rural Americans have indicated that in difficult economic times, childcare makes up a significant part of the burden families are facing. With a lack of affordable options, voters are looking for Congress to find ways to do more.

The poll found that 20% of rural parents are putting off having more children as a result of the cost of childcare. The same percentage of parents said they are cutting back on necessities in order to pay for childcare. Rural voters strongly support federal childcare programs, with 69% of rural Americans believing it is a good investment of taxpayer money.

Subsidized childcare programs have proven to work well in America. Earlier this month, New Mexico became the first state to offer free universal childcare, expanding on an existing childcare program that helped lift over one hundred thousand New Mexicans out of poverty. Among 41 high-income nations in the world, the U.S. currently ranks 40th on UNICEF's childcare ranking. Our nation is long overdue for federal childcare programs, despite strong, bipartisan support from Americans.

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

122 - The number of days since China last placed an order for U.S. soybeans.

The 2025-26 crop year began on September 1st, and harvest has been ongoing since then. As of now, U.S. soybean growers are missing nearly 47% of their market as beans begin to pile up. Soybeans have a shelf life and do not store well. This could soon turn into a financial disaster for many growers.

   Looking Ahead
  • October 1stThe Deadline for passage of a Continuing Resolution, or full annual budget, to prevent a government shutdown. Currently, no path to a Continuing Resolution exists, and a full budget is months away from passage.
  • October 6th - The Supreme Court reconvenes to begin hearing cases for the 2025-26 Judicial term.

WHAT WE'RE READING

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