Americans for Prosperity Arkansas: Modernizing Rural Infrastructure Without Raising Costs

Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.

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.

Related Stories
Gov. Gavin Newsom has until October 12 to sign a bill passed by the California state legislature allowing E15 sales.
The Senate failed to pass a continuing resolution that had been approved by the House the previous week. They could take it up again today, but it would take seven democrats to end the stalemate.
Livestock and government payments provide a boost, but crop receipts and rising expenses keep pressure on margins. Strong financial planning remains key in a volatile environment.
The decline in production marks the second consecutive year of contraction in the U.S. turkey industry.
We caught up with Karen Braun, Chief Market Analyst at Zaner Ag Hedge, at the Women in Agribusiness to discuss the data behind commodity trading.
Weston Brown joined us on Monday in the RFD-TV Studios in Nashville to share how he is preparing for the upcoming National FFA Convention & Expo.
Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn joined us Monday to share highlights from Secretary Brooke Rollins’ visit and her perspective on USDA’s new initiatives.
RFD-TV Farm Legal and Taxation expert, Roger McEowen, with the Washburn School of Law, joined us Monday to break down the changes and explain what producers should know.
North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU) President Mark Watne joined us Monday to share his perspective on the America First Trade Promotion Program and potential implications for producers.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, adding a decade of experience in the digital side of broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Some sustainability shifts are not particularly challenging and can be implemented with resources already available to farmers and ranchers on their operations.
The government reopens after 43 days. USDA resumes key reports, weighs farm aid, and watches China’s next move on U.S. soybean purchases.
Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty shares tips for fall and winter to guide landowners and farmers.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insights from a recent study, discusses EV market access in Canada, and highlights other market opportunities top of mind for Canadian producers.
USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom shares how recent trade talks are influencing U.S. red meat global sales and the importance of key trade agreements like the USMCA.
Iowa Ag Secretary Naig recaps discussions surrounding a potential federal aid package for farmers and shares insights on producer sentiment in the Heartland.