Robert F. Kennedy Jr. addresses farmers and ranchers in his confirmation hearing

Food policy is front and center today as the Senate Finance Committee holds the confirmation hearing for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees the Federal Drug Administration (FDA).

Kennedy personally addressed American farmers and ranchers in his statements, emphasizing their vital role in shaping the nation’s culture, economy, and security.

“American farms are the bedrock of our culture, of our politics, of our national security,” Kennedy said. “I was a 4-H kid, and I spent my summer working on ranches. I want to work with our farmers. I want to work with our farmers and food producers. Remove burdensome regulations and unleash American ingenuity. I simply cannot succeed without a partnership with American farmers.”

Tomorrow, Kennedy will face the Senate Health, Education, and Labor Committee.

Related Stories
Meredith Petersen joined us to discuss the National Swine Health Strategy, how it was developed through industry collaboration, potential challenges ahead, and its expected benefits for pork producers.
K-State researchers advise producers to take action, highlighting that prevention is essential for controlling tick populations as cases spread West.
The Supreme Court’s ruling could affect pesticide warning claims well beyond Roundup. Richard Gupton with the Ag Retailers Association joins us to explain the importance of federal pesticide labeling standards and discuss the potential impact on the ag industry and supply chain.
As part of this effort, USDA will establish a new National Food Safety Center (NFSC) in Urbandale, Iowa, which will serve as the primary hub for FSIS administrative, technical, and support operations.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold explains how springtime brings seasonal changes to agricultural operations and, with them, renewed concerns about safety, allergies, and mental health this week on Rural Health Matters.
Mobile unit supports first responders with equipment and hands-on training

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lawmakers and experts react to the Administration’s long-awaited announcement of “bridge” aid to stabilize farms and offset 2025 losses until expanded safety-net programs begin in 2026.
Read the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s official press release published on Monday, December 8, 2025.
Joe Peiffer with Ag & Business Legal Strategies advises farmers on end-of-year financial planning, including preparing records, avoiding common credit mistakes, and evaluating equipment purchases for 2026.
Lewie Pugh with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) discusses the gap in truck driver education programs and how it impacts road safety and supply chain economics.
She joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share more about her new cookbook, “Dishes and Devotions: Make Every Day Delicious,” which recently hit #1 in Amazon’s Cajun & Creole Cooking category.