Welcome Back to Farm Table Talk
As I sit here after this whirlwind of an election, I’m filled with complex emotions—both cautious hope and deep concern for what lies ahead. Let’s not beat around the bush: while some of the new leaders being tapped for roles in agriculture and health give me hope for positive change, there’s a shadow cast by the figure at the top. I did not vote for the orange oompa loompa, and I stand firmly against his presence in the highest office in the land. But as someone rooted in resilience, I know we have to make the best of the situation, focusing on the silver linings where we can.
Today, I’m sharing my honest, unfiltered views—not just because I believe in transparency, but because, as a farmer, mother, and member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have to be real about what this means for our lives and our future.
Trump’s Past and What It Represents
Let’s get something straight: having a felon as president could theoretically open doors for broader felony reform in this country. If a convicted felon can become president, then why shouldn’t jobs, housing, and basic assistance be accessible to those with past convictions, as long as their offenses aren’t directly related to the roles they’re seeking? Reform could help end the cycle of punishment that extends far beyond someone’s prison sentence. However, Trump’s personal record, from being found liable for sexual abuse against columnist E. Jean Carroll to his ongoing appeals against these verdicts, is deeply disturbing. For me, he’s a reminder of the unchecked power that enables the kind of behavior that’s toxic to our communities and our progress.
I don’t feel safer with Trump in office. His hostile stance toward the LGBTQ+ community, along with the divisive rhetoric he often spews, has already fueled civil unrest and given a platform to hate. I believe that a true leader should be someone we can trust to create a safe, inclusive environment for all citizens. And quite frankly, Trump has failed to demonstrate that he can do that.
Finding Hope in Key Figures: Joel Salatin, RFK Jr., and the PRIME Act
Yet, amid these concerns, there are glimmers of hope. As I’ve mentioned, Joel Salatin’s advisory role under Thomas Massie gives me optimism for the future of agriculture in this country. Massie’s PRIME Act is a huge step toward empowering small farmers and restoring food sovereignty. By reducing the barriers around meat processing, we could see a shift away from Big Ag’s dominance and a return to community-centered, sustainable farming practices. Joel’s involvement gives me hope that some of his wisdom—wisdom rooted in regenerative agriculture and respect for the land—might actually influence policy at the federal level.
Similarly, RFK Jr.’s potential role in health services could encourage a health system that values preventative wellness and transparency, a concept we live by every day at Huckleberry Farms. His stance aligns closely with our farm’s focus on clean, natural food and a proactive approach to health, and it’s a welcome shift in a system that often prioritizes quick fixes over true wellness.
Preparing for Economic Uncertainty: The Role of Elon Musk and the Need for Community Resilience
I’m no die-hard Musk fan, but his perspective on economic hardship resonates in a practical way. If he really does serve as an advisor on government waste, I hope he can push for more efficient spending. His predictions of a market downturn serve as a warning, especially for those of us committed to self-sufficiency and resilience. I can’t stress enough how essential it is for people to start building connections with local farmers, stocking their pantries, and brushing up on essential skills. If you’re not already strengthening your local networks, it’s time to get started.
Facing Uncomfortable Realities and Pushing for Change
I may not have voted for Trump, but I can recognize the potential for positive change if these other players step up and make an impact. We’re all in for a challenging few years, but challenges build resilience—and resilience is in our DNA as farmers, parents, and community members. Instead of despair, let’s channel our energy into supporting local businesses, learning new skills, and pushing for a future that values all people, respects the land, and protects our rights.
Now more than ever, we need to get uncomfortable and embrace the hard work of change. So let’s continue building each other up and pushing for a future that reflects our values.
With courage and conviction,
Traci
What are your thoughts on how these changes could impact our local food systems and communities? What would you like to see happen to bring about more resilience and positive change?
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I agree with Trump. He is not guilty of all the charges against him. He was railroaded by a weaponized Democrat party. I sympathize with him. Because I am a convicted Felon too who was falsely accused and sent to jail for a crime I didn’t commit. So I’m against what he’s against and for what he is for. He’s not a dictator and he will govern with a balanced approach. I think your fears are unfounded. And a book shouldn’t be judged by its cover.
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Thanks so much for sharing your perspective. I totally get where you’re coming from, especially with what you’ve been through as a convicted felon. My partner is a felon too, and I know how hard it is to carry that label, especially if you’ve faced unfair treatment. I think everyone deserves a shot at a better life, and it’s a huge part of why I believe in supporting people beyond what society sees on the surface.
For me, it’s not about judging Trump solely by his legal issues or his policies. In fact, the business record charges don’t bother me much either—I’ve seen plenty of powerful folks walk that line. But what hits hard are the sexual assault allegations, particularly as a survivor myself. I’ve watched how he’s talked about women and the things he’s been accused of, and it doesn’t make me feel safe. It’s one thing to have flaws or make mistakes; it’s another to have a pattern of harmful behavior toward others.
I respect your view that Trump will govern with balance, and I hope you’re right. And honestly, I’d love to believe that’s possible. For me, though, there’s a need to be cautious, especially with the issues around his past behavior toward women. Thanks again for adding your voice to the conversation—it’s good to hear from folks who see things differently but are willing to discuss it.
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