White Farmer Challenges USDA Over Alleged Racial Bias
A Wisconsin dairy farmer has launched a fresh legal battle against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), accusing the agency of racial discrimination by favoring minorities in its financial support schemes.
Background of the Lawsuit
Filed by the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, the lawsuit contends that the USDA’s loan and aid programs grant different levels of assistance based on race and gender—a practice the plaintiff says violates the Constitution. The case represents Adam Faust, a dairy farmer from Chilton, Wisconsin, who previously took on similar government programs during the previous administration.
In 2021, Faust was involved in overturning a loan forgiveness initiative targeting "socially disadvantaged farmers." A federal judge ruled that the race-based criteria in that program were unconstitutional. Subsequently, Congress suspended and repealed this program in 2022.
Specific Claims of Unequal Treatment
The lawsuit highlights three current USDA initiatives that Faust alleges discriminate against white farmers like himself:
- Faust is required to pay a $100 fee under a dairy support scheme, whereas minority and female farmers are exempt.
- Loan guarantees cover up to 95% of loan values for women and racial minorities, but only 90% for white farmers, making loan acquisition more difficult for him.
- In an environmental program assisting with manure storage systems, Faust is eligible for reimbursement of only 75% of costs in contrast with minority farmers who can receive up to 90% coverage.
Calls for Accountability
Upon filing the lawsuit, Faust emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in federal agricultural support. He stated, "The USDA should honor the President’s pledge to end racial discrimination in government programs. After years of being overlooked, I hope this lawsuit delivers answers and accountability."
Earlier this year, the Wisconsin Institute sent a warning letter to the USDA demanding changes, backed by six Republican Wisconsin lawmakers urging a formal investigation into the programs.
Broader Political Context
The Trump administration has expressed intentions to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies within federal agencies, advocating instead for merit-focused programs. While the USDA has not commented directly on the lawsuit, public statements suggest a shift towards revising aid frameworks to be race-neutral.
What’s Next?
The legal team, which has pursued similar cases across 25 states, indicated a preference to resolve the matter without court proceedings but asserted there is "no justification for ongoing discrimination." The outcome could reshape how federal farming assistance programs are structured going forward.
