Staff Reports
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has pledged to black farmers that he will ensure the implementation of a $5 billion reparations plan, which was previously reduced due to complaints from white farmers who claimed it infringed on their constitutional rights. Kennedy discussed the plan with John Boyd Jr., founder of the National Black Farmers Association, on his podcast. Kennedy emphasized his commitment to overcoming the obstacles delaying the plan, asserting that the $5 billion represents an entitlement unjustly denied to black farmers through discriminatory practices. Boyd has filed a lawsuit against President Joe Biden's administration for not delivering the reparations promised in a relief package intended to support socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.
The relief package, part of the American Rescue Plan, faced legal challenges from white farmers who argued it violated their constitutional rights, resulting in delays. The lawsuit claims the administration broke its promise to black farmers and other farmers of color. The original plan aimed to repay up to 120 percent of farm loan balances for black, American Indian, Hispanic, Asian American, or Pacific Islander farmers, but it faced opposition as some viewed it as racially discriminatory.
RFK Jr. has $5 billion reparations plan to top Biden and Trump in November https://t.co/Ext9vPOYjO
— Trump2024_no_matter_what (@TexasTrump2024) May 21, 2024
The $5 billion reparations proposal was ultimately included in the Inflation Reduction Act, which allocated $2 billion for farmers who have experienced discrimination and $3 billion to the Agriculture Department for aiding financially struggling farmers regardless of race. This decision was influenced by legal challenges and concerns about potential delays. The Agriculture Department has pledged to implement these provisions promptly.
Kennedy's strong support for the original $5 billion reparations plan seems to be a strategic effort to attract black voters, especially considering former President Trump's lack of interest in addressing reparations. Kennedy's stance on this issue contrasts with Trump's 2019 remarks, where he expressed doubt about the feasibility of reparations. Kennedy is currently polling at a national average of 9.8% and is aiming to participate in the June 26 debate between Biden and Trump on CNN.
