We old-timers who have been involved in the grain business for many years (yes, there are a few of us left) have witnessed the benefits of trade first hand. For at least the last 60-plus years, exports of U.S. grain, soybeans and soy products have been a key fundamental factor in the balance between U.S. supplies and demand that determines their value. Whether exports are the most important factor in finding value may be debatable, but we would argue that they have been as critical in this regard over the long term as any other source of demand. Given this experience, the benefits to the U.S. of free trade unfettered by barriers seem crystal clear. In our view, support for free trade should be a “no-brainer.” Thus, we are surpr...