Southern Alberta farmers demand focus on affordability and taxes

Farmers in southern Alberta are calling for the focus of the upcoming federal election to shift towards affordability, tax cuts, and tariffs. They expressed their concerns during a recent Agricultural Expo in Lethbridge. Young farmer Sam Van Uden highlighted the struggles of his generation, stating that wages have not kept up with rising costs of living. Many attending the expo voiced a desire for politicians to prioritize cost of living issues. With inflation driving up grocery and gas prices, farmers feel that today's middle class income is higher than it used to be. They shared that owning a home and supporting a family now requires significantly more income than in the past. The expo drew a strong turnout from local farmers, who generally support conservative values. They believe reducing costs and taxes is crucial for their future. The farmers also discussed how U.S. tariffs and inflation create financial stress, with some small farms facing difficulties. Polling shows that the cost of living is a top concern for Canadians. Farmers are calling on candidates to address these economic issues, particularly tariffs affecting equipment prices and local market access. Issues like carbon tax were also mentioned, with many viewing it as an extra burden that adds to their challenges. While Alberta's agriculture sector is thriving, increasing land and operating costs have made it difficult for young people to enter farming. Young graduates voiced worries about their financial futures, particularly in housing and living expenses. Many want elected officials to provide support and create policies that foster a stable agricultural environment. Overall, farmers are aiming for a clear commitment from candidates to tackle economic issues and secure a prosperous future for the agricultural community. They hope for discussions that lead to effective solutions rather than political distractions.