Farmers bear the brunt of government shutdown as political gridlock prioritizes immigration over agriculture The Democrat-led government shutdown has suspended critical USDA programs, leaving farmers without disaster relief, conservation support and loan processing. Republicans accuse Democrats of prioritizing taxpayer-funded healthcare for illegal immigrants over aiding struggling agricultural producers. Payments for drought, wildfire and hurricane recovery programs are frozen, worsening financial strain on rural communities. Trade disruptions, labor shortages and rising input costs compound challenges for farmers already facing a dire economic outlook. Experts warn prolonged shutdowns could deepen farm bankruptcies and disrupt food supply chains. As the federal government shutdown enters its second…