Central Missouri News

Following an investigative report by NewsNation, Congressman Mark Alford has requested a review of the Biden Administration's use of race-based criteria in farmer relief programs. Alford sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), its Inspector General, and the Government Accountability Office (GAO), seeking a report within 90 days on these practices.

Alford expressed concerns about the application of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in USDA programs authorized under the current administration. He referenced Section 1005 of the American Rescue Act, which provided additional loan relief to socially disadvantaged farmers. This section defined eligible farmers as those belonging to socially disadvantaged groups, effectively excluding white farmers from receiving loan forgiveness.

Several Caucasian farmers challenged this provision in federal court, arguing it was unconstitutional. Despite a court ruling that acknowledged constitutional harm, Alford claims that the Biden Administration continued similar assistance through the Inflation Reduction Act for socially disadvantaged farmers.

Alford criticized these measures as "inherently unconstitutional" and discriminatory against farmers based on race. He praised former President Trump's efforts to eliminate DEI from government programs and urged for an investigation into these initiatives' impact on American agriculture.

In his letter, Alford called for a detailed report outlining the scope and financial implications of such programs under the Biden Administration within 90 days. He emphasized the importance of ensuring fair treatment for all farmers and ranchers regardless of race.