AMES, Iowa (RFD-TV) — Iowa’s agricultural leaders are emphasizing the state’s deep farming roots as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) moves forward with its reorganization plan. A delegation from the state is urging the department to relocate Agricultural Research Service (ARS) projects to Ames, Iowa, which already serves as a hub for agricultural research and innovation.
U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share why Ames is uniquely positioned to support expanded USDA operations. She highlighted the region’s existing infrastructure, noting that Ames currently has one of the largest concentrations of USDA facilities and employees outside Washington, D.C.
In her interview with RFD-TV News, Sen. Ernst also addressed the delay of a much-anticipated federal aid package and shared what she is hearing from Iowa’s producers as they navigate ongoing financial challenges and the uncertainty created by the government shutdown.
She also discussed her efforts to have phosphate added to the U.S. Critical Minerals List, which would help stabilize fertilizer markets. He offers a message of reassurance to farmers and ranchers during these uncertain times.
And in celebration of National 4-H Week, Ernst reflected on her own experience in 4-H and the program’s enduring impact on youth leadership in Iowa and across the nation.
Predator pressure and public lands policy were front and center at CattleCon.
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The USDA’s February WASDE report looms as the CME Ag Economy Barometer shows declining farmer confidence, and more ag industry groups calling for swift policy action.
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Congressman Pete Stauber explains why the repeal of a Biden-era mining ban is good not only for his home state of Minnesota – it’s good for America.
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Dr. Peter Beetham, interim CEO of Cibus, joined us to discuss the status of EU gene-editing deregulation and its potential implications for agriculture.
February 06, 2026 12:36 PM
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Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX), who sits on the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, spoke exclusively with RFD NEWS about what Congress is doing to address screwworm concerns, including funding for a sterile fly production facility in Mexico.
February 06, 2026 12:07 PM
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HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy calls on cattle producers to retain breeding cows while Ivomec receives emergency authorization to prevent New World screwworm.
February 06, 2026 11:48 AM
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The U.S. trade deal with Argentina creates new export opportunities for U.S. livestock and crop producers but also raises competitive concerns.
February 06, 2026 10:15 AM
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Policies aimed at ground beef prices may primarily reshape dairy incentives rather than deliver lasting consumer savings.
February 06, 2026 08:00 AM
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More flexible export financing could strengthen demand in emerging markets and support higher U.S. agricultural exports.
February 06, 2026 07:00 AM
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