Ag Sec. Brooke Rollins addresses trade and disaster relief at USDA’s Ag Outlook

Trade has been a big topic at USDA’s Ag Outlook Forum this week in Washington, D.C.

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins is delivering the keynote address this morning, and she mentioned the Administration’s commitment to securing fair trade deals for American farmers, noting that addressing trade issues is a top priority for the White House.

“We’re committed to getting a fair deal for American agriculture and trade. As you know, this is a top priority for this White House, and we’re going to get it done. I know that many in our industry are concerned, and rightly so, about the effect of tariffs on farmers. But I want you to know that your concerns are heard and that I will always be always your greatest champion.”

Rollins also provided updates on disaster relief, saying the Administration is going to deliver $40 billion in emergency aid, and the effort is moving quickly, with plans to meet the March 21st deadline set by Congress.

Related Stories
Texas livestock producers face a heightened biosecurity threat as New World screwworm detections in northern Mexico coincide with FDA approval of the first topical treatment.
“The Expanding Access to Risk Protection (EARP) Final Rule streamlines requirements across multiple crops, responds to producer feedback, and strengthens USDA’s commitment to putting America’s farmers first,” said the USDA.
Higher ocean freight raises export costs just as global grain competition intensifies.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer has developed a detailed calculator to help producers navigate the program’s requirements. He joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to explain how it works.
Milk output is rising, but steep drops in Class I–IV prices are tightening margins heading into 2026.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
Wed, 1/21/26 – 7:30 PM ET | 6:30 PM CT | 5:30 PM MT | 4:30 PM PT
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.