The Trump Administration has put a hold on all operations with the U.S. Agency for International Development, which is tasked by Congress to distribute humanitarian aid around the globe. Supporters say the Agency is rife with corruption, but some ag lawmakers warn millions of dollars of food could go to waste.
This week on X, Kansas Senator Jerry Moran warned Secretary of State Marco Rubio that hundreds of millions of dollars of American-grown food is in jeopardy of rotting at U.S. ports. Then late last night, USAID offices were shuttered globally without much notice.
In his weekly call with ag reporters, Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley said there has been a lot of waste in the program and said a 90-day waiting period is the right call.
“I think you have to separate those out, and I think before the 90 days are up, and maybe even today, you’re going to have some modifications of that. But, without a doubt, I think that USAID needs a really thorough investigation.”
USAID was started by Executive Order under President Kennedy in 1961. Congress codified its existence in 1998.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
February 23, 2026 01:40 PM
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Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
February 23, 2026 12:32 PM
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Ranger Road Fire has burned 283,000 acres across Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle and is nearing containment, as ranchers begin assessing cattle and infrastructure losses as they look toward recovery.
February 23, 2026 11:08 AM
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Agriculture avoided major disruptions, but trade uncertainty remains elevated.
February 23, 2026 10:09 AM
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The debate now matters as much as the policy — market rules and regulatory clarity depend on whether Congress can finish the bill this year.
February 22, 2026 03:00 PM
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Fed cattle numbers are down two percent in February, according to the latest USDA report. Marketings fell 13 percent, signaling continued pressure on beef prices in 2026.
February 20, 2026 03:38 PM
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