Colorado Farmers' Trade-War Angst Shapes 2026 House Races as Beef Imports Squeeze Cattle Producers

3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Sep 7

Colorado farmers and ranchers say Trump’s tariffs, Iran-war-driven fuel costs and a temporary easing of beef duties have turned this year’s state fair into a subdued backdrop for the 2026 House fight.
Cheaper imported beef is hitting cattle producers just as many were recovering, while higher fertilizer and fuel costs have deepened the economic strain in rural communities.
That anxiety is giving Democrats hope of flipping at least one Colorado House seat in November as Trump’s standing weakens in the state.
Two vulnerable House Republicans are answering the backlash differently—one emphasizing opposition to Trump’s trade moves, the other aligning closely with the president—highlighting how farm economics are reshaping the congressional map.

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