Help will soon be on the way to farmers and ranchers who were impacted by natural disasters last year. Ag economists say the money is much needed, but warn there could be fallout.
“While this assistance is significant, it’s important to understand its broader implications. These payments will help offset losses and reduce financial stress, making loan renewals and financial planning easier for the 2025 crop year. However, there are potential unintended consequences as well. This aid could slow necessary cost adjustments in the agricultural sector. For example, negotiating lower cash rents with landowners may be more difficult, and pressures on farmers and input suppliers to reduce other costs might be reduced,” said Nick Paulson.
There is still no word on when that money will be distributed. It was a big topic at the confirmation hearing for Ag Secretary nominee Brooke Rollins. When asked about payments, she said it would be a day-one priority.
"[It] will be a fast and furious effort to ensure that we move that economic aid out. Aid to the farmers is a top priority; animal disease is a top priority; ensuring that we begin to move toward President Trump’s vision. I work for him, I am his cabinet member, but I also work alongside all of you.”
There is no word yet on when the full Senate will vote on Rollins’ confirmation. Industry leaders believe she will pass without any issue.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.
January 23, 2026 04:40 PM
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USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.
January 23, 2026 03:39 PM
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Congressman Adrian Smith of Nebraska joined us with the latest on efforts to secure year-round E15 sales.
January 23, 2026 01:12 PM
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Nearly everyone in the South Texas ag community appears extremely worried about the potential of a New World screwworm epidemic, according to a local veterinarian. RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports.
January 23, 2026 11:56 AM
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Ethanol and corn groups are not hiding their disappointment over new reports that the bill to allow year-round E15 sales failed as Congress forges ahead on government funding, with another shutdown looming.
January 22, 2026 11:24 AM
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The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
January 21, 2026 12:30 PM
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