USDA Funding Cut by 20% in Proposed 2027 Budget

Reductions part of wider federal plan to boost defense spending and cut domestic outlays

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:50pm

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A serene, painterly scene of a lone farmer standing in a vast, golden wheat field, the warm light casting long shadows across the landscape, conveying a sense of isolation and uncertainty about the future of American agriculture.The proposed USDA budget cuts could undermine support for the nation's farmers and rural communities.Rapid City Today

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has proposed a 20% cut to its budget for the 2027 fiscal year, according to a summary released by the department. The reductions are part of a broader federal budget plan that would trim domestic spending by around 10% while increasing defense spending by approximately $1.5 trillion.

Why it matters

The proposed USDA budget cuts could have significant impacts on the nation's farmers, food supply, and rural communities that rely on the department's programs and services. The cuts are part of a wider shift in federal spending priorities that emphasizes defense over domestic programs.

The details

The USDA says its 2027 budget proposal is intended to prioritize support for farmers and modernize the country's food supply, while also eliminating wasteful spending. However, the 20% reduction in overall funding for the department could undermine those goals and lead to service reductions or program eliminations.

  • The USDA released its proposed 2027 budget summary on April 6, 2026.

The players

U.S. Department of Agriculture

The federal executive department responsible for developing and executing policies related to agriculture, food, natural resources, and rural development.

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What’s next

The proposed USDA budget cuts will now go through the congressional appropriations process, where lawmakers will debate and potentially modify the administration's spending plan.

The takeaway

The USDA budget cuts are part of a broader shift in federal spending priorities that emphasizes defense over domestic programs, which could have significant impacts on the nation's farmers, food supply, and rural communities.