Massive USDA Layoffs and Budget Cuts Planned

USDA Prepares for Over 15,000 Exits and Major Funding Reductions

The USDA is preparing for sweeping changes as more than 15,000 employees exit and over $4.6 billion in discretionary funds are cut under the administration’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins will appear before lawmakers to defend the plan and explain how USDA will continue functioning amid large staff reductions.

The plan includes reorganization across departments to focus on efficiency and prioritizing direct services to farmers.

Agencies with the highest job losses include the Forest Service (4,044), NRCS (2,408), and Rural Development (1,538).

Food safety, inspection, statistics, and international aid services are also impacted. In some cases, nearly 30% of an agency’s workforce is leaving.

USDA’s discretionary cuts target technical assistance, rural grants, broadband programs, and food aid. NRCS would lose $754 million, and RD programs would lose $721 million. Food for Peace and McGovern-Dole food aid programs would be eliminated.

“President Biden and Secretary Vilsack left USDA in complete disarray, including hiring thousands of employees with no sustainable way to pay them,” said USDA’s Seth Christensen. “Secretary Rollins is working to reorient the department.”

Research programs also face cuts. NIFA would lose $602 million, and ARS would face a $159 million reduction, with some research sites expected to close.

Lawmakers like Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN) oppose the plan, warning that slashing FSA technical services and rural wildfire prevention funding could harm farmers and communities.

The cuts raise concerns about the long-term support for rural America, agriculture innovation, and local development during ongoing market and climate challenges.