Today’s quick hits, July 24, 2020

Election race leans toward Torres Small: “No (House) Democratic incumbent is an outright underdog as of now — even members who hold seats that (President) Trump won by double digits” in 2016. That assessment includes House Agriculture chairman Collin Peterson of Minnesota and committee member Xochitl Torres Small, whose New Mexico seat now “leans Democratic.” (Sabato’s Crystal Ball)

Record world corn crop despite U.S. cut: Although reduced plantings could make the U.S. corn crop 12 million tonnes smaller than expected a month ago, global corn production is projected to rise by 4 percent in 2020/21, to a record 1.16 billion tonnes. Total global grain production would also set a record. (International Grains Council)

JBS accused of buying cattle from illegal land: JBS, the world’s largest meat processor, bought cattle that were illegally grazed on land protected from development in the Amazon, says a report by Amnesty International. JBS denied wrongdoing. (Mongabay)

Livestock disposal program is extended: Iowa state agriculture secretary Mike Naig said a new round of state compensation is available to egg and hog farmers who culled layer hens, market-weight hogs, and weaned pigs because of market disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. (Iowa Department of Agriculture)

Coronavirus aid for fairs: County and state fairs are economic engines and social gathering places that deserve inclusion in a coronavirus relief package, said lawmakers from California and Missouri. (Farm Journal)