WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — The ongoing government shutdown has many in agriculture wondering how the situation will affect farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. In this week’s Champions of Rural America, Congressman Dusty Johnson, the Republican from South Dakota, joined us to discuss recently introduced legislation aimed at preventing future shutdowns and supporting the farm economy.
During his interview with RFD-TV News, Rep. Johnson discussed the potential for upcoming aid announcements for farmers, sharing what he is hearing from producers across South Dakota. He addressed the current shutdown and explained his decision to forego his congressional paycheck until the issue is resolved while continuing to work toward a solution.
Johnson also provided insight into the newly introduced “Eliminate Shutdowns Act,” detailing how it could prevent similar disruptions in the future, and he offered guidance for South Dakotans and Western Americans on staying confident that their elected officials are advocating on their behalf. He shared a message of encouragement for farmers navigating challenging times in agriculture, including rising costs, trade uncertainties, and the current shutdown.
Additionally, Johnson discussed his bill, which would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to update base acres for all farms, highlighting the provisions that farmers can expect to benefit from. He also addressed how the Working Families Tax Cut continues to support stronger rural communities and detailed its potential impact on small towns across South Dakota.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated this week that the government will intervene to help, following China’s withdrawal from the U.S. soybean market. One trader says the industry will remain in a holding pattern until Tuesday.
October 03, 2025 01:04 PM
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Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joins us to provide an updated analysis of projected ARC and PLC payments and potential delays due to the ongoing government shutdown.
October 03, 2025 11:02 AM
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Dr. Beetham outlined the background of the EU’s decision to modernize seed regulations and where the process stands today, and its impact on global agriculture and food security.
October 02, 2025 01:24 PM
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“It, all of a sudden, says that tracking and fighting hunger is not a priority, apparently, at the federal level.”
October 02, 2025 01:22 PM
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Colin Reilly with Connected Nation joined RFD-TV News to explain how the tool works and why it’s an important step in bridging the digital divide.
October 02, 2025 12:32 PM
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In a final rule published in the Federal Register, the Department states that it will no longer base wage rates on the Farm Labor Survey.
October 02, 2025 11:20 AM
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Farmers are in the midst of harvest as the government descends into a shutdown and the Farm Bill expires. Key federal departments, crop reporting, and aid programs important to the agricultural sector are now on hold.
October 02, 2025 10:54 AM
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Trump’s upcoming talks raise hopes for U.S. soybeans, but China’s record purchases from Brazil and Argentina show America’s market share remains under heavy pressure.
October 02, 2025 10:27 AM
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“MAKE SOYBEANS, AND OTHER ROW CROPS, GREAT AGAIN!”
October 01, 2025 02:53 PM
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