Farmers in mid-Michigan share their stories and outline policy actions to ensure that independent farmers and ranchers can continue their livelihoods.
Watch the Progress Michigan video.
We need to build an economy that respects hard-working people. When we have what we need — like good-paying jobs with benefits — we are all better off. But for a generation, the federal government has supported big corporations to hoard profits and consolidate land ownership. Wages are too low, and costs keep rising, leaving families struggling. People risk their health from dangerous working conditions, unaffordable prescription drugs, and polluted water. These harms aren’t random — they are business decisions, often with government permission. But if the federal government protected us from corporate abuse, then working people would have a safe and level playing field to grow the economy, support thriving local businesses, and drive demand so we can all have a good life.
Issue Priorities
Empower Workers
Rural workers earn less, are less likely to have benefits, and are more likely to be injured on the job.
Make Essentials Affordable and Accessible
Everyone should be able to afford groceries, medicine, and other essentials.
Rein in Unchecked Corporate Greed
Giant corporations use their outsized power to push out small businesses, drive down wages, and extract our resources.
Use Federal Dollars to Support Rural Economies
Use our funding to support rural and locally owned businesses rather than giant corporations.
Enact Trade Policy that Prioritizes Workers, Farmers, and Small Businesses
Trump’s tariffs are wreaking havoc on main streets across America. Our trade policy should: