Tariffs will be top of mind as Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins gets to work at the helm of the USDA. They are a big part of President Trump’s agenda, but some worry the ag industry could see some impacts. One International Policy analyst thinks Trump is putting tariffs on the wrong items.
“If you’re going to do tariffs, don’t do it on things that your firms are buying in order to produce stuff. Do it on the end products, do it on foreign cars coming in that are competing with cars made in America,” said Tim Sargent.
However, one ag economist says tariffs do have a purpose.
“The reason that we use tariffs might be to raise funds. It might be to protect American jobs, to grow American industries, and we can look at that from the slant that, okay, maybe perhaps that’ll work,” said Craig Lemoine.
Yesterday, the President ordered government agencies to study reciprocal tariffs and non-tariff barriers to trade. Their reports are due on April 1st.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
January 08, 2026 11:42 AM
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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
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal insight and context on these issues facing agriculture. Today, he discusses pesticide litigation.
January 06, 2026 01:39 PM
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Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.
January 06, 2026 01:28 PM
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According to multiple reports, Sen. Amy Klobuchar is considering a bid for Minnesota governor. If elected, this would open a key seat on the Senate Agriculture Committee.
January 06, 2026 11:30 AM
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