Post-election Impact

The results of the 2024 election have reshaped the political landscape in Washington, D.C. With Donald Trump reclaiming the presidency and Republicans regaining control of the Senate, the irrigation industry faces the possibility of significant policy shifts. As we prepare for 2025, here’s what we might expect in the months ahead, based on insights from Nathan Bowen, policy and industry advancement vice president at the Irrigation Association.

Regulatory Reset: What to Expect

President Trump’s victory signals a return to a business-oriented regulatory framework. “The transition team is already moving forward with appointments to federal agencies, with Lee Zeldin, a former New York congressman, tapped to lead the Environmental Protection Agency,” Bowen explains. This, coupled with a Republican Senate majority, suggests smoother confirmation processes and a potential pause on new regulatory activity while the administration establishes its agenda.

For the irrigation industry, Bowen notes, “We could see reduced regulatory hurdles in permitting and compliance, which may relieve some pressures on businesses. However, vigilance will be key as these policy changes take shape.”

The House: A Divided Chamber

While Republicans have secured control of the House, their slim majority will constrain their ability to pass sweeping legislation. “Party leadership will face challenges balancing priorities within their caucus while seeking bipartisan support for major initiatives,” says Bowen.

For irrigation, this dynamic could mean a renewed focus on reducing regulatory burdens and limiting federal spending on infrastructure and conservation programs. Bowen points out that key committees, including the House Agriculture Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee, are likely to prioritize policy changes and tax policies that support business and agricultural producers.

However, the narrow majority also poses risks. “With right wing members of the Republican party holding significant sway, leadership may struggle to maintain unity on contentious issues, which could slow legislative progress,” Bowen adds. This uncertainty could affect industries dependent on federal investment and predictability.

Senate Leadership and Tax Policy

The Senate’s new Republican majority brings changes to leadership that may have major implications for tax policy. “Key priorities like restoring full deductibility of R&D expenses, reinstating full expensing, and revisiting interest deductibility standards are likely to resurface,” says Bowen. These measures, which were supported during Trump’s earlier term, directly influence business’s ability to invest and grow.

In addition, Senator John Boozman of Arkansas replaces retiring Senator Debbie Stabenow to lead the Senate Agriculture Committee. Bowen anticipates that Boozman’s leadership could shift priorities in ways that benefit agricultural producers and irrigation businesses.

Advocacy in Action

As the Irrigation Association, we are committed to advancing policies that promote smart water use, infrastructure investment and workforce development. “We’re already engaging with key stakeholders in the new administration and Congress to ensure the irrigation industry’s voice is heard,” Bowen emphasizes.

What Lies Ahead

The coming months will be pivotal as the new administration and Congress settle into their roles. We will continue to monitor developments, provide timely updates and advocate for the industry’s priorities.

With these changes on the horizon, we encourage Irrigation Association members to join us in March for our annual Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C. Your participation is essential to ensuring our collective voice helps shape the policies that will influence the irrigation industry for years to come.

While the political landscape shifts, our commitment to the industry remains constant. Together, we can navigate these changes and position the irrigation industry for a stronger, more water-conscious future.

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