FARGO, N.D. (RFD-TV) — U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins recently unveiled a new five-step plan designed to strengthen the farm economy as producers face high input costs and mounting market challenges. A key piece of the plan is a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Justice aimed at investigating fertilizer and seed prices—two of the most significant expenses for farmers.
North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU) President Mark Watne joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the announcement and discuss its potential implications for producers in his state and nationwide.
In an interview with RFD-TV News, Watne emphasized the urgent need to address rising input costs, stating that the MOU has the potential to increase transparency and level the playing field for family farmers.
Watne also weighed in on the USDA’s decision to expedite $285 million through the America First Trade Promotion Program to help expand global market access for U.S. commodities, a timely move as harvest season gains momentum.
Lastly, he discussed President Trump’s recent comments about directing aid to farmers through tariff revenues, sharing his thoughts on how an aid package could best support producers.
AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
January 08, 2026 02:45 PM
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In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
January 08, 2026 11:51 AM
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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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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
