RELEASE: Letter Responds to USDA Reorganization, Warns Against Diminished R&D Capacity

Washington, DC — September 29, 2025 — The Breakthrough Institute submitted a letter in response to the proposed reorganization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), warning that the changes risk eroding critical agricultural research and development (R&D) capacity. The letter, addressed to Secretary Brooke Rollins and Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden, highlights concerns that the reorganization, including the proposed closure of the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, will jeopardize American agricultural productivity and global competitiveness.

Public investment in U.S. agricultural R&D has already declined by a third since 2000, slowing productivity growth. The proposed reorganization risks exacerbating this trend by diminishing workforce expertise, disrupting competitive grant programs, and undermining the trust of farmers and rural communities.

"We cannot afford to abandon investments in agricultural innovation today that will leave U.S. producers less competitive in the years ahead," says Emily Bass, Director of Federal Policy for Food & Agriculture at the Breakthrough Institute. "Foundational agricultural research has long lag times, making disruptions even more dangerous. With farmers facing high input costs, growing pest and disease pressures, and a rapidly shifting trade landscape, new innovations are needed and a strong federal research enterprise remains essential.”

The letter urges the USDA to provide transparent justifications for its reorganization plan, conduct a thorough economic and workforce impact analysis, and ensure that the agency retains the staff capacity to manage existing grant programs. Protecting the U.S. agricultural R&D enterprise remains essential for delivering lasting benefits for all.

Click here to read the full letter.

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Media Contact:

Emily Bass

Director of Federal Policy, Food and Agriculture

emily@thebreakthrough.org