Study: More than 30% of Rural Households Struggle with Internet Insecurity

Chris McGovern from Connected Nation joined us Tuesday to break down the findings and discuss their implications for rural America.

WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — A recent report from Connected Nation finds that roughly one-third (30.6 percent) of rural American households are facing “internet insecurity,” underscoring how limited connectivity remains a significant barrier to opportunity in many parts of the country.

Chris McGovern from Connected Nation joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to break down the findings and discuss their implications for rural America. In an interview with RFD-TV News, McGovern outlined the methodology and background of the study, explaining how “internet insecurity” is defined and measured—and which areas are most affected.

McGovern said some of the findings, while troubling, were not very surprising, given the longstanding challenges of extending broadband to remote regions. He also emphasized the risks that rural communities face without stable, high-speed internet, including weakened economic development, reduced access to telehealth services, educational disruptions, and decreased competitiveness in an increasingly digital world.

McGovern urged states and localities to prioritize sustainable broadband infrastructure, regulatory support, public-private partnerships, and funding mechanisms that ensure lasting access—not just short-term fixes.

For more information on Connected Nation’s study, click here.

Related Stories
Retail pricing confirms tight cattle supplies and supports continued leverage for producers, reinforcing the need for disciplined risk management.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.
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.
Long-term demand uncertainty is reshaping specialty crop strategies as producers adapt to fewer, older consumers.
Seasonal boxed beef softness does not change the tight-supply outlook — leverage remains closer to the farm gate heading into 2026.
As the new year begins, both farmers and rural families are taking stock of their finances and planning ahead for 2026.
Trade uncertainty—especially regarding soybeans—continues to weigh on future outlooks, even as farm finances and land values remain resilient.
Strong export demand supports feed grain prices, but drought risk and seasonal patterns favor disciplined early-year marketing.
Preserving equity through active risk management remains critical in a volatile, supply-driven market.