ALBERTA, CANADA (RFD NEWS) — The Trump Administration is moving to designate glyphosate and phosphorus as critical to national defense, a controversial step highlighted this week by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy. Kennedy acknowledged the toxicity of these chemicals in a recent post on X, but said their availability is essential to maintaining U.S. crop yields and supporting the nation’s agricultural system.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the implications for farmers.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Haney explained why the designation is being made, including the strategic importance of certain chemicals to food production, and addressed the significance of Kennedy—a longtime critic of pesticides—supporting the move.
Haney also discussed what this could mean for producers as the government and ag leaders accelerate the transition to regenerative agriculture, noting that while the designation preserves immediate access to chemicals like glyphosate, it also underscores a push toward reducing long-term reliance on synthetic inputs.
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
January 08, 2026 08:00 AM
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North Dakota CO₂ Storage Law Struck Down
January 07, 2026 03:03 PM
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University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.
January 07, 2026 02:16 PM
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Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine shares insight into biosecurity, preparedness, and animal health concerns facing livestock producers as New World screwworm outbreaks continue in Mexico.
January 07, 2026 12:57 PM
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Tennessee Rep. John Rose joined us to pay tribute to his friend and colleague, Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a true Champion of Rural America.
January 07, 2026 12:20 PM
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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins today released the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030.
January 07, 2026 11:55 AM