"I ask this because many farmers start asking for government help at the first sign of economic adversity. Are the wealthier farmers guilt of this or is it just those in danger of losing their operation?"

To address this question, I guess it is/was no different than Donald Trump asking for financial help when his businesses went into financial trouble......

or professional sports team owners asking for a financial break from municipalities to move or keep a sports team in a certain city.....

or.....  and I am sure you can find your own examples of rich people asking for - and receiving - financial benefits that others do not get......

I am not saying that I approve of, or disapprove of, farmers receiving financial assistance. I am merely pointing out examples where "rich people" ask for and receive financial favors.