Trump Administration drops charges against the Maude Family Ranch

The Trump Administration announced it has dropped criminal charges against a South Dakota ranching family.

Charles and Heather Maude faced federal charges over a fence-line and planting disputes involving 50 acres of federal land. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins said it was a civil case, and the charges should never have escalated. She said the actions of the previous administration caused turmoil for the Maude family.

The Maude Family will speak at a news conference in Washington tomorrow.

Related Stories
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent last week said an announcement would be made on Tuesday. However, that self-imposed deadline has now passed.
Dr. Todd Davis, Chief Economist with the Indiana Farm Bureau, shares a snapshot of his state’s harvest conditions and insights from producers.
Lewis Williamson, from HTS Commodities, joined us to share insights on the farm economy from producers in the field.
Congress has just over a month of working days left for the year. Plan for uneven USDA service until funding is restored, and closely monitor Farm Bill talks, as avoiding Permanent Law before January 1 is the single biggest risk to markets and milk prices.
“A government shutdown impacts all Americans and has serious consequences, including for farmers. It just adds additional uncertainty, disrupts critical services.”
On Champions of Rural America, Rep. Dusty Johnson underscores the Western Caucus’ ongoing commitment to advocating for farmers and rural communities.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

USTR Jamieson Greer signals a narrower trade deal with China, adding more market uncertainty. The Farm Bureau also supports reviewing China’s missed trade commitments under the Phase One.
Southern producers head into 2026 with thin margins, tighter credit, and rising agronomic risks despite scattered yield improvements.
Record yields and exceptionally low BCFM strengthen U.S. corn’s competitive position in global markets.
Raulston Acres Christmas Tree Farm in Rock Springs, Ga., has been in the same family for three generations.