MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Senator Roger Marshall said Thursday morning that Kansas agriculture is beginning to rebound, as trade agreements and ethanol expansion offer new opportunities for farmers across the state.
On the BW Morning Show, Marshall expressed optimism about recent developments on the trade front and praised the Trump administration’s tariff strategy as a long-term investment in American manufacturing and farming.
“This is my favorite time of year,” Marshall said. “The turkeys are gobbling, the fish are biting, and the grass is green.”
Marshall, who has spent the past month touring Kansas and visiting more than 40 counties, said he’s seeing positive signs in both the fields and the factories. “Dozens of manufacturing plants across the state have seen sales spike,” he said, attributing the growth to the use of American-made aluminum and steel. “People want the stability of knowing what they’re ordering today won’t be affected by tariffs six months from now.”
On the issue of international trade, Marshall pointed to a new agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom as a win for Kansas agriculture.
“This is the first of many,” he said, noting over 80 countries are interested in pursuing trade deals. “This opens the door for beef and ethanol exports — two of the brightest spots in Kansas ag right now.”
Marshall emphasized that removing non-tariff barriers in Europe would allow Kansas-grown beef and corn-based ethanol to enter new markets. He also advocated for expanded production of ethanol and renewable fuels made from soybeans, particularly jet fuel.
“We’re pushing for year-round E15 sales and a long-term extension of the 45Z tax credit,” he said. “Those moves would be game-changers for corn and soybean producers.”
The senator also addressed the challenges farmers have faced under the Biden administration, citing a sharp drop in net farm income and rising interest rates.
“Fertilizer, diesel — those input costs skyrocketed,” he said. “But we’re starting to see interest rates and input prices come down. I think we’re going to be in better shape this year than we were last year.”
Marshall praised the U.S.-Japan trade relationship as another key win, particularly for Kansas beef producers. He recalled attending the signing of a beef trade agreement during the Trump administration — the only member of Congress invited by the president.
“Nobody in the world can make beef that tastes as good as Kansas beef,” Marshall said. “Once people taste it, they want more.”
He also pointed to growing ties between Kansas and Japan in aerospace, including partnerships in satellite and chip production. “Japan continues to be a strong ally — not just in trade, but in keeping pressure on China,” he said.
As he continues his tour of Kansas, Marshall said he remains committed to advocating for stable, long-term solutions for farmers and manufacturers alike.
“Everybody, take a deep breath,” he said. “Let’s come back in two months and see where we are. I think we’re going to be in a better place.”