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
Superior Livestock Auctions markets more than 1.7 million head of cattle nationwide while also building long-term relationships between both cattle raisers and beef producers.
The proposal would require farmers’ consent before companies can sell agricultural data
Watch the AARP Live special on Wednesday, April 15 at 7:30 ET only on RFD Network and RFD+
Farm Bureau officials say the findings underscore mounting pressure on producers heading into the 2026 growing season, with input costs continuing to outpace farm income.
Corey Rosenbusch with The Fertilizer Institute joined us to discuss supply chain disruptions and what farmers should watch as global tensions impact fertilizer markets.
Spring Fieldwork Expands While Weather Challenges Persist Nationwide
Natalie Roy from AgriSafe Network talks about women’s role in agriculture and the increasing need to address their unique health and safety needs as they form a larger part of the workforce.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farm programs remain small but politically easier to expand.
Transporting pollinator colonies—primarily honey bee hives—is a major logistical operation in U.S. agriculture. Costs can vary widely depending on distance, fuel prices, labor, and timing.
Jake Charleston from Specialty Risk Insurance Agency recapped an Oklahoma auctioneer contest and recent industry events, showing how stakeholder feedback helps insurers gauge market conditions and risk management needs.
Pat Hord with the National Pork Producers Council joined us to recap producer meetings in Washington and discuss key policy priorities including Prop 12 and agricultural labor.
Cattle-on-Feed is down on the year in the USDA’s April report, with lower placements and marketings signaling tighter feedlot activity.