NEW JERSEY (RFD-TV) — Rural communities now have a new way to track progress on broadband expansion. Connected Nation has launched an interactive dashboard that enables residents to view how their states plan to utilize federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program funding.
Colin Reilly with Connected Nation joined RFD-TV News on Thursday’s Market Day Report to explain how the tool works and why it’s an important step in bridging the digital divide. Reilly highlighted a recent Connected Nation report showing that nearly one-third of rural households are considered “internet insecure” — lacking reliable or affordable high-speed internet at home.
The new BEAD tracker breaks down how each state intends to use its allocated federal dollars to improve broadband access, providing a transparent view of funding plans and progress. According to Reilly, the goal is to help ensure rural Americans have the same opportunities for connectivity as their urban counterparts.
Roger McEowen, with the Washburn School of Law, offers an in-depth look at two of the top legal issues of 202. Today, he walks through last year’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) ruling and “lawfare.”
January 27, 2026 02:53 PM
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Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us with an update on the historic winter storm impacts and his outlook on today’s ag markets.
January 27, 2026 02:39 PM
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The West Carroll Parish Ag Expo represents more than farming — it is about the future of agriculture, where tradition meets innovation, and where the backbone of Northeast Louisiana continues to thrive.
January 27, 2026 12:31 PM
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Marilyn Schlake with the UNL Department of Agricultural Economics joined us for a closer look at the evolving role of livestock sale barns.
January 27, 2026 12:19 PM
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Auction manager and West Texas A&M University student Presley Graves joined us to discuss the growth of StockShowAuctions.com and its impact on youth in agriculture.
January 27, 2026 06:00 AM
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Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening joined us with the latest update on storm conditions and impacts across the state.
January 26, 2026 04:30 PM
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