What $147 Billion in Farm Subsidies Could Buy Instead

Between 2017 and 2025, the USDA distributed $147 billion in farm subsidy payments through the Farm Service Agency. That's an enormous sum — but how enormous? Here's what the same money could have funded instead.

Context, Not Judgment

These comparisons aren't meant to argue that farm subsidies should be eliminated. Agriculture is essential infrastructure, and some level of support helps manage risk in an inherently volatile industry. But putting the numbers in context helps citizens understand the scale of these programs and make informed decisions about priorities.

The real question isn't whether to spend on agriculture — it's whether this spending is effective. When 70% of subsidy dollars flow to the top 10% of recipients, and the smallest farms receive almost nothing, it's worth asking if there's a better way to support American agriculture.

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Think more people should see this? Share this page and help make farm subsidy spending part of the public conversation. Transparency is the first step toward better policy.