Reflecting on Jimmy Carter and his Food and Agriculture Policy Legacy

The Last Farmer in the White House: Jimmy Carter's Legacy in Agriculture

As the last farmer to occupy the White House, Jimmy Carter’s agricultural background influenced much of his presidency and life after office. His connection to farming began long before he entered politics—growing up on a 360-acre farm in Plains, Georgia, where peanuts, cotton, and other crops were cultivated. Carter’s deep understanding of agriculture, though rooted in the everyday realities of farm life, shaped his presidency in ways both admired and controversial. His tenure as president saw him propose bold agricultural policies, some of which had far-reaching consequences, including his humanitarian focus on global food security and efforts to balance agricultural reform at home.

From Peanut Farmer to President

Carter’s early career in farming gave him a unique perspective when he assumed the presidency in 1977. While he was often described as a "peanut farmer," his experience extended beyond peanuts; he operated a peanut warehouse, a seed production business, and was actively involved in farm input sales such as fertilizers and pesticides. Despite this, he was not a fan of farm programs that interfered with supply and demand dynamics, reflecting his belief in reducing governmental involvement in agriculture. His presidency was marked by proposals to dismantle some New Deal-era policies and regulations, including the elimination of certain farm allotments.

However, his approach to agriculture was not without controversy. Carter’s decision to support a lower price for major commodities in the 1977 farm bill was met with disappointment by many farmers, including David Senter, a leader of the American Agriculture Movement (AAM). “We had just elected a farmer as president,” Senter remarked, “and his farm bill was a disappointment for many farmers.” For Carter, his choices were not driven by political considerations but by his belief in reducing government intervention, even if it meant losing support from key constituencies.

Carter's Agricultural Policies: Balancing Reform and Pragmatism

Carter’s agricultural policies were shaped by his background as a farmer, but his presidency took a pragmatic turn as he tackled the issues of the day. The president's refusal to bow to political pressure was evident when he stood firm on issues such as dietary guidelines for eggs despite strong opposition from the egg industry. When egg producers urged him to retract warnings against cholesterol, Carter told his Agriculture Secretary, Bob Bergland, to stand his ground, prioritizing principle over political expediency.

His policy decisions, however, did not always play well with farmers. For instance, during his campaign, Carter had promised a parity-based pricing system for dairy, but a 30% inflation in dairy prices, coupled with overproduction, led to an oversupply of cheese. The result was a government-induced glut that raised the costs for producers and resulted in a market failure. Carter’s handling of agricultural issues like the dairy crisis, alongside his decision to propose cuts to popular water projects in the West, added fuel to the growing discontent among farmers. The American Agriculture Movement, which gained momentum through protests and "tractorcades," highlighted the frustrations of many who felt that the policies of the Carter administration were out of touch with their needs.

The 1980 Grain Embargo and Its Impact

One of the most contentious decisions of Carter’s presidency was his embargo of grain exports to the Soviet Union in 1980, in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. While initially supported by agricultural leaders, the embargo soon became a political and economic liability. Grain and soybean prices fell sharply, and the embargo failed to significantly harm Soviet food supplies, as Moscow was able to source its grain from other countries. This decision not only harmed American farmers but also challenged the notion of "food power," as Carter’s embargo proved largely ineffective in punishing the Soviet Union while severely damaging U.S. agricultural interests.

Iowa farmer Benjamin Riensche, reflecting on the legacy of Carter’s agricultural policies, noted that while Carter had a good heart, “nice guys can make really bad ag policy.” The embargo and its effects are often cited as a precursor to the agricultural crisis of the 1980s, a painful period for American farmers.

A Humanitarian Legacy in Global Food Security

While Carter’s agricultural policies in the U.S. faced criticism, his post-presidency efforts have earned him widespread admiration. Following his time in office, he dedicated much of his life to humanitarian work through The Carter Center. He worked to alleviate hunger, promote health, and improve human rights around the world, particularly in regions devastated by famine. In the 1980s and 1990s, Carter played a pivotal role in mobilizing resources for famine relief in sub-Saharan Africa, ensuring that crop and livestock innovations reached the most vulnerable populations.

Jimmy Carter's Impact on American Agriculture

Despite the ups and downs of his presidency, Carter's agricultural roots left a lasting impact on both American policy and his personal life. His business acumen, rooted in his farming experience, informed his leadership decisions, particularly in agricultural reform. Although he faced criticism for his policies, such as the 1977 farm bill and the 1980 grain embargo, his belief in the importance of feeding the world’s hungry and supporting small farmers worldwide has continued to resonate.

After leaving the White House, Carter’s farm years continued to influence his actions. He founded Carter’s Warehouse and expanded his farm, eventually growing the business into a significant agribusiness operation. Though the business struggled after his presidency due to drought and financial mismanagement, the farm remains an important part of Carter’s life and legacy. Today, the land is used for agriculture, timber production, and conservation efforts.

A Legacy of Leadership, Compassion, and Farming

Jimmy Carter’s legacy as both a farmer and a humanitarian remains strong. He was more than just a peanut farmer—he was a farmer with a vision for a better world. Through his presidency, humanitarian efforts, and continued focus on agricultural issues, Carter’s life story is a testament to the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. His life in farming helped shape his leadership and set the stage for a career that continues to inspire people worldwide. Even now, at ages 98 and 96, Carter and his wife Rosalynn continue to live in Plains, Georgia, where their love for their land and community endures.