First winter wheat ratings: Some 56 percent of the U.S. winter wheat crop was in good or excellent condition at the start of this week, double the 28 percent reported a year ago, said the USDA in its first Crop Progress report of the growing season. (USDA)
Bacon faces closer race: Rep. Don Bacon’s race for re-election in Nebraska “tilts” Republican, a downgrade from the previous “leans” Republican, said election analyst Nathan Gonzales; Bacon has a challenger in the May primary and would be in a rematch with state Sen. Tony Vargas in the general election. (Roll Call)
Revolt among European farmers: Agricultural grievances against environmental regulations, rising costs, and unrelenting competition are forcing EU leaders to trim their climate ambitions; “it’s the end of the world vs. the end of the month,” said a French farm leader. (New York Times)
SNAP enrollment declines: Some 41.2 million people received SNAP benefits at latest count, the smallest enrollment since August 2022; benefits averaged $193.76 per person per month. (USDA)