Staff Reports
President Trump has once again taken the lead in standing up for American farmers, particularly those toiling under the unforgiving Texas sun. On a warm Thursday, he made it clear that the gloves are off, as he unleashed a scalding critique of Mexico’s failures to uphold its obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty. According to reports, Trump expressed frustration on his social media platform, calling out Mexico for being delinquent on its water payments, which have been crucial for Texas agriculture.
The former president pointed out that Mexico owes Texas a staggering 1.3 million acre-feet of water—a hefty sum that translates to dire consequences for hardworking farmers. He lamented the impact of Mexico’s broken promises on South Texas, where, as he claims, the only sugar mill went belly up over the water shortage. While some folks might applaud the delicate negotiations of diplomacy, Trump would rather drop some tariffs and sanctions to get Mexico’s attention. After all, when has a little trade pressure ever hurt anybody—especially when it comes to defending American jobs and agriculture?
Trump’s statement was filled with his characteristic flair, signaling the end of leniency with Mexico. He has vowed to ensure that treaties are honored and that Texas farmers receive the water they rightfully deserve. Recent actions included halting water shipments to Tijuana until Mexico comes back to the negotiating table, likely embarrassed and ready to play nice—or at least empathetic to the plight of Texas farmers.
Trump Vows US Will 'Keep Escalating Consequences' for Mexico Over Water Treaty Violations https://t.co/rxSqYHVoj6
— Marlon East Of The Pecos (@Darksideleader2) April 11, 2025
As many in Texas worry about the impact of this ongoing feud on their citrus and sugar crops, the pressure is mounting. Industry experts suggest that without sufficient water, the prospects for this year’s citrus yield could be bleak. Drought conditions have only exacerbated this situation, and the historical precedent of these treaty disputes does little to ease the anxiety among the agricultural community. For a state that prides itself on its citrus production, being reliant upon Mexico—especially during a water crisis—can provoke a particular kind of frustration that only grows stronger with every dry season.
Despite claims from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum that the country has been trying to comply with its treaty obligations, skepticism reigns supreme. Hardworking Texans might wonder if “to the extent water is available” translates into, “We’re doing our best, but not really.” Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has, for the first time, pushed back against Mexico’s pleas for special water requests, sending a clear message that if there’s no compliance with existing agreements, there will be no room for favors.
As Trump and his Agriculture Secretary continue to legally wrangle with Mexico over these water rights, one thing is certain: Americans will keep an eye on how this all plays out. With election season heating up, Texans—and indeed, American farmers nationwide—are likely to remember who championed their causes when the going got tough.
