Some congressional ag leaders say they were caught off guard by Ag Sec. Rollins’ proposal to reorganize the USDA.
Now, top lawmakers on the Senate Ag Committee are calling for a hearing.
Senate Ag Committee Chair John Boozman says in part, “The best way to serve our agriculture community is by working together, so it’s disappointing USDA didn’t share its plans in advance of this announcement. I will be thoroughly examining the details of the proposal and look forward to learning more from Secretary Rollins and holding a hearing about the reorganization.”
Ranking Member Senator Amy Klobuchar also expressed disappointment, saying in part, “The USDA must come before Congress to explain why it wants to adopt this plan...This half-baked proposal – submitted with no consultation with leading Agricultural Senators – will set us back. We must have an immediate hearing before more damage is done.”
Secretary Rollins has not released an official statement on these calls for a hearing. Shortly after the plan was laid out, she said USDA will “do right” by continuing to serve farmers and ranchers, as well as USDA employees.
USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.
January 23, 2026 03:39 PM
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Nearly everyone in the South Texas ag community appears extremely worried about the potential of a New World screwworm epidemic, according to a local veterinarian. RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports.
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Rural population growth and stabilizing economic indicators point to post-pandemic recovery, but uneven income, shifting industries, and regional divides remain key challenges for rural communities.
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Decoupled base acres may amplify income inequality and distort planting decisions as farm program payments increase.
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Corn and wheat exports remain a demand bright spot, while soybeans are transitioning into a more typical late-winter shipping slowdown.
January 21, 2026 10:36 AM
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Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
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