The Finance Committee held a hearing focused on trade and supply chains.
Ag voices were part of the conversation, including the American Soybean Association. President Caleb Ragland shared concerns about the economic pressure farmers are facing and urged lawmakers to focus on expanding market access in future trade deals.
“Our farm economy is in a dire situation. Commodity prices are down nearly 50% from three years ago, while farmers are still facing elevated prices for land, seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides. As the Administration negotiates with trading partners to reduce barriers and address reciprocal trade issues, we encourage this committee to press the White House on the importance of market access for U.S. agriculture. My written testimony includes specific asks of our industry, including a strong plea to couple this reciprocal tariff strategy with swift negotiations to reduce tariffs and remove market barriers for U.S. ag products.”
In a follow-up, Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley asked which countries could serve as future markets for U.S. soy products beyond China. Ragland pointed to India, noting its large population but acknowledging trade with the country remains complex.
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, fertilizer transparency efforts, and the role of trade in supporting farmer profitability.
April 21, 2026 04:12 PM
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U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins joined us to discuss fertilizer markets, domestic supply efforts, trade priorities, and ongoing policy work aimed at stabilizing costs for U.S. farmers.
April 21, 2026 03:39 PM
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RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses the DOJ investigation into U.S. beef packers, concerns about cattle pricing, and ongoing trade and animal health issues affecting producers.
April 21, 2026 02:37 PM
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Strong demand for U.S. beef in Mexico is boosting exports, with buyers seeking both variety meats and high-quality cuts like Prime and Choice ribeye.
April 21, 2026 12:49 PM
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Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, proposed fertilizer legislation, and potential support for farmers navigating tight margins.
April 21, 2026 12:39 PM
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As AI-driven data centers expand in rural South Texas, local officials and economists debate water use, farmland impacts, and the balance between technology growth and agriculture preservation.
April 21, 2026 10:10 AM
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