Ohio Farmers Feel the Squeeze from Iran War and Government Policies

Joe Stimmell, a lifelong resident of Ashland County and farmer of over 20 years, is speaking out about the struggles Ohio farmers face due to the country's foreign policy decisions. As a result of the ongoing war with Iran, gas prices in Ohio have skyrocketed to around $4.50 per gallon, while diesel has reached a record high of $6.81.

Stimmell, who raises 25 head of beef cattle and farms about 700 acres of corn, soybeans, and small grains with his brother and uncle, is frustrated that politicians like Ohio U.S. Sen. Jon Husted and Congressman Max Miller are not doing enough to address these issues.

Husted has voted 14 times in support of the war in Iran, while Miller has voted for it seven times, including a budget framework that would provide $73 billion for the war. This lack of action is having a significant impact on farmers like Stimmell, who are struggling to make ends meet due to rising input costs and falling cattle prices.

The Iran war is not the only issue facing Ohio farmers; the administration's constant meddling in markets is also taking a toll. Since September, live cattle have dropped by 20 cents, or $300 per head, while fat cattle have fallen by 40-50 cents, wiping out nearly 20% of their value.