Congress Debates Agricultural Trade Impacts on Maryland Farmers

USDA official testifies on restoring fairness and reciprocity in global markets.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 6:22am

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In a House committee hearing, lawmakers questioned USDA Under Secretary Luke Lindberg about trade policy and export markets, as Maryland farmers feel the impact of ongoing debates in Congress over agricultural trade.

Why it matters

Agricultural trade is a critical issue for Maryland's farming communities, with the state's farmers relying on export markets. The congressional debate over trade policy could have significant implications for the livelihoods of these farmers.

The details

During the hearing, Lindberg told the panel that the USDA's 'mission is clear, restore fairness and reciprocity in global markets and return America's agricultural trade balance to a surplus.' The discussion comes as Maryland farmers navigate the changing trade landscape.

  • The House committee hearing took place last week.

The players

Luke Lindberg

USDA Under Secretary who testified before the House committee on agricultural trade policy.

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What they’re saying

“Our mission is clear, restore fairness and reciprocity in global markets and return America's agricultural trade balance to a surplus.”

— Luke Lindberg, USDA Under Secretary

What’s next

The House committee is expected to continue its debate on agricultural trade policy in the coming weeks, with potential implications for Maryland's farming community.

The takeaway

The ongoing congressional debate over agricultural trade policy has real-world impacts on Maryland's farmers, underscoring the importance of these discussions for local communities across the state.