Dr. Ernie Goss, the Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University, provides key insights into the rural Midwest economy through his Rural Mainstreet Index. This monthly survey of financial leaders in small agricultural communities across 10 states highlights current trends, including challenges such as declining farm equipment sales, reduced farmland prices, and financial pressures on farmers due to higher interest rates and lower farm income.
As Donald Trump prepares to return to the presidency, his proposed trade policies, including the possibility of escalating tariffs, are drawing attention. While tariffs could affect sectors like agriculture and manufacturing by raising costs or triggering retaliatory measures, some speculate that targeted trade policies might be used to negotiate better conditions for U.S. producers. Goss, known for his focus on long-term economic trends, suggests that the outcome will depend on how these policies are implemented and received globally. He continues to monitor these developments closely, evaluating their potential impact on rural economies.
