This week in Champions of Rural America, Texas Congressman Jodey Arrington discusses how his roots shape his decision-making and the issues facing producers in his state.
He serves Texas’s 19th congressional district which includes a large slab of the western portion of the state. While he does not sit on the House Ag Committee, he is a member of the Congressional Western Caucus.
As a member of the House Budget Committee and Ways and Means, Arrington says that the budget reconciliation process will advance President Trump’s “America first” policies. He said that includes restoring lawlessness at the border, military readiness, and turning the economy around.
Related Stories
Analysts say a Supreme Court decision on tariffs could reshape protein markets, strain U.S.-China trade, and force farmers to rethink global demand strategies.
Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
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.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.