Seth Watkins argues Congress must act to end the war in Iran
In a column published on October 4, 2026, fourth-generation Iowa farmer Seth Watkins argues that U.S. leaders should look to agricultural history to help broker an end to the ongoing war involving Iran. Writing from Pinhook Farms in Clarinda, Iowa, Watkins contends that rising economic pressures at home demand active political leadership rather than congressional recesses.
- The column draws parallels between modern geopolitical conflict and the 1959 historic visit of Soviet premier Nikita Khrushchev to Iowa farmer Roswell Garst.
- Watkins highlights domestic impacts of the war on Iran, including a $200 increase to fill his John Deere tractor, a 30% rise in nitrogen fertilizer, and $1,800 semi-truck fill-ups.
Pinhook Farms Owner Recalls Historic 1959 Khrushchev Visit to Iowa
The essay marks the recent 67th anniversary of Nikita Khrushchev’s September 23 visit to the Garst farm in Iowa. Reflecting on growing up during the Cold War, Watkins expresses gratitude for Roswell Garst’s commitment to peace. During that historic encounter, Garst told the Soviet premier that two farmers could settle world problems faster than diplomats.
Watkins argues that Washington can learn from that historical precedent today. At a dangerous moment in the Cold War, two agriculturalists recognized the strength of sitting down with an adversary to search for peace. He suggests that today’s leaders should study the impact that diplomacy had on past generations and get back to work to end current conflicts.
Rising Fuel and Fertilizer Costs Straining American Agricultural Operations
According to the column, the war in Iran has directly impacted American families, farmers, and workers through sharp inflationary costs. Watkins reports that filling his John Deere tractor now costs an extra $200, while nitrogen fertilizer prices have climbed by at least 30%. Transportation costs have similarly spiked, with truckers paying $1,800 to fill their semi-trucks—an increase of $800 compared to January prices.
These rising diesel and fertilizer expenses drive up the cost of getting food to market, carrying consequences that extend far beyond the farm gate. Families across the country face higher grocery bills, elevated fuel costs, and growing anxiety over affording heating oil as winter approaches. Watkins emphasizes that a war fought thousands of miles away inevitably arrives on domestic kitchen tables and farms.
Criticism of Congressional Absence During National Economic Crisis
The essay criticizes the U.S. House of Representatives for leaving Washington for weeks in the middle of a national crisis. Watkins asserts that American soldiers have lost their lives, families are hurting, and farmers are struggling while lawmakers step away. Drawing on his lifelong experience raising cattle, Watkins notes that farmers do not abandon their responsibilities during a blizzard or walk away when livestock need care, and taxpayers should expect the same accountability from elected officials.
While local farmers can create opportunities to produce nutritious, affordable food and prepare for hard times, Watkins notes they cannot negotiate an end to a war or halt tax dollars from funding one. That responsibility belongs strictly to elected leaders in Congress. The column calls on lawmakers to return to Washington, prioritize citizens, and pursue diplomatic solutions to end the conflict.