LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (RFD NEWS) — Reliable and affordable energy infrastructure is becoming a growing focus for rural America as the U.S. works to reduce reliance on foreign energy sources. Efforts are underway to modernize aging power grids in rural communities while keeping costs manageable for residents and producers.
Ryan Norris, Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss strategies for modernizing energy infrastructure without burdening rural families, farmers, and agricultural producers.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Norris addresses how permitting and regulatory reform are being implemented in rural communities and why affordable, reliable power is critical for agriculture and economic competitiveness. He also highlighted Arkansas’ role in providing 15 percent of the nation’s lithium supply and discussed how critical minerals like lithium fit into America’s broader energy security strategy.
Strong balance sheets still matter, but liquidity, planning, and lender relationships are critical as ag credit tightens, according to analysis from AgAmerica Lending.
January 19, 2026 03:00 PM
·
While short-term volatility remains a risk, softer ocean freight rates in 2026 could improve export margins.
January 18, 2026 12:00 PM
·
Rising rural business confidence supports local ag economies, but taxes and labor shortages remain key constraints.
January 17, 2026 02:00 PM
·
CoBank Knowledge Exchange’s Jeff Johnston shares the group’s positive perspective on expanding data centers into rural areas and weighs the risks and rewards for those communities.
January 16, 2026 01:44 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
January 16, 2026 01:34 PM
·
Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
January 16, 2026 01:28 PM
·
