Do Farmers Deserve What They Got?

Lately, social media and responses to articles about farm struggles have been filled with comments saying things like “Farmers voted for Trump — they got what they deserve.”This week, your OBIE host, Dana DiPrima, slows that conversation down.In this reflective episode, she unpacks the frustration and anger behind those comments — and explores what’s really at stake when we decide who “deserves” empathy.Through facts, context, and a little heart, Dana walks listeners through:What farmers actually thought they were voting for — trade stability, regulatory relief, survival.What they got instead — lost markets, labor shortages, rising costs, and consolidation.Why “deserve” is the wrong frame for democracy, food, or justice.And how blame divides us while the system that hurts farmers — and eaters — stays intact.It’s not about defending anyone. It’s about remembering that food is infrastructure — and when farmers fail, we all feel it.Key ideas in this episode:Farmers aren’t a political monolith; only ~1–2% of Americans farm, and their reasons for voting often come down to survival, not ideology.Tariffs, trade wars, and policy swings have disproportionately hurt small and mid-size farms.Empathy shouldn’t depend on political alignment. We can hold policies accountable without wishing harm on the people who grow our food.The real threat isn’t who farmers voted for — it’s consolidation, volatility, and disconnection from the systems that feed us.Support the Show📩 Become an OBIE Insider: Stay connected, get behind-the-scenes updates, and explore more ways to eat and drink like it matters. Here's the link to sign up.🎧 Liked the show? Leave a 5-star rating and review to help us bring you more incredible guests and conversations. Top reviews on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or you can leave your review here.📱 Screenshot this episode and share it on your socials!🏷️ Tag @xoxofarmgirl + #OneBiteIsEverything📱 Connect on SocialsInstagram @xoxofarmgirl  Dana DiPrima, For Farmers Movement & OBIEFacebook For Farmers Movement & OBIE🎙️ The OBIE TeamDana DiPrima, host and producerSonia Dhillon, co-producer & editorRussell Chapa, sound engineer, original musicOne Bite is Everything is a proud part of Heritage Radio Network, home to the most influential voices in food.