John Block Reports from Washington

Hello everybody out there in farm country. This radio commentary is brought to you by the National Corn Growers Association, CropLife America, and Renewable Fuels Association. They are all friends, supporters, and allies of a healthy farm economy and prosperous rural
America. Thank you.

And now for today’s commentary –

The election is behind us. There was no “blue wave.” After the Courts review the
election process to see if it was fraud free – no corruption -- then the winner will be formally
declared. As of now, it looks like Joe Biden will get the job. I said – this was not a blue wave.
Republicans have picked up at least 5 and maybe more House seats. Also, although there will be
a runoff election of 2 Senate seats in Georgia, the Republican candidates are expected to win. If
everything falls in place as I expect, we will have a divided government. That’s not all bad.

Once inaugurated in January, President Biden will have to work with the Republican Senate in order to get anything done. Democrats will not be able to pass legislation to pack the Supreme Court – not that they would but some did want to. Although the Dems and Republicans might be able to raise some tax money, the Trump Tax Legislation which is law until 2026 should stay in place. That means the Death Tax will not come down on small family businesses, farms, and ranches. I know that some of the Biden team were considering that. Maybe a Republican Senate can limit the legislative damage but look for President Biden to use his pen with more aggressive regulations. Many of President Trump’s regulatory changes could be rolled back. I would not expect President Biden to slap tariffs on everything like President Trump. That could be a good thing. I am hopeful the phase one deal with China could be saved.

On the question of who Biden would choose for his staff and cabinet, I have one name on my wish list. For Secretary of Agriculture I want Collin Peterson. He has served as Chairman of the House Ag Committee. He is a Democrat, and he knows the Ag industry. He is a great guy, and he plays country music.

On the subject of trade – the Trump Administration and the Biden team are in the middle of a violent trade dispute with Europe. Back and forth with tariffs and accusations and responding to World Trade Organization rulings. It is a mess.

Last word – today is Veteran’s Day. Thank you to the brave men and women that have served our Country. I have this small blanket beside me on my chair. The message on it reads “Freedom is not free.” Thank you for your service.

Until next week, this John Block reporting from Washington, D.C. If you would like to review my radio shows going back more than 20 years, just go on-line to
www.johnblockreports.com.