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.
USDA data indicates that 13.7 percent of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2024, the highest rate since 2014, even as most households remained food secure.
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