WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — As producers continue to grapple with high input costs and challenging market conditions, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has announced a new five-step plan aimed at supporting the farm economy. The initiative includes a “Memorandum of Understanding” (MOU) with the Department of Justice to examine fertilizer and seed prices, two of the most pressing cost concerns for farmers.
Duane Simpson, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC), joined us in Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the plan and its potential impact on producers.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Simpson underscored the financial strain that rising input costs have placed on farmers and expressed optimism that the MOU could help bring transparency and fairness to the market. He also addressed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to expedite $285 million through the America First Trade Promotion Program, stating that the investment could open new opportunities for U.S. agricultural products abroad at a crucial time during the harvest.
Simpson further reflected on the challenges facing the ag community—from unpredictable markets to weather and supply chain disruptions—and shared his thoughts on whether the USDA’s new measures will be enough to provide meaningful relief for farmers nationwide.
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Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.
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RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
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RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses the latest developments in the Supreme Court, trade tariffs, and the future of the USMCA under President Donald Trump.
January 14, 2026 11:54 AM
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The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.
January 14, 2026 11:19 AM
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A high-stakes legal case in a South Dakota federal court concerning misleading country-of-origin labeling (MCOOL), such as “Product of the USA,” on food products, will significantly impact U.S. agricultural policy for years to come.
January 14, 2026 09:00 AM
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Agronomy experts explain why standing crop residue protects soil and reduces costs for crop growers, while shredding often yields little benefit at higher costs.
January 14, 2026 08:00 AM
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Freight volatility increasingly determines export margins, making logistics costs as important as price in marketing decisions.
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