Congressman Dusty Johnson’s Weekly Update: Planting Seeds for South Dakota’s Future

Planting Seeds for South Dakota’s Future
By Rep. Dusty Johnson
August 21, 2026

BIG Update

Dakotafest celebrates the best of South Dakota agriculture. Every year, this event brings people together to learn about the techniques and technology that our producers use, and yes, the delicious food our producers work so hard to provide. It’s especially encouraging to see the next generation of South Dakota agriculture inspired by the equipment and conversations at Dakotafest.

I joined in on the fun to provide an update from Congress, including the status of the Farm Bill, the path toward year-round E15, and the producer-first policies we’ve already put into law. It’s important to hear directly from those working in the fields about the challenges they face and how policymakers can support their work. I also saw firsthand some of the technologies that are supporting producers today.

Johnson speaks with producers at Dakotafest in Mitchell

BIG Idea

Rural economic growth is powered by innovators, entrepreneurs, and builders. I joined the NorthWestern Energy Summit in Sioux Falls to discuss the importance of our shared commitment to growing South Dakota’s economy and investing in its future. The United States must continue to do big things, and South Dakota can play a leading role in our nation’s future. By encouraging investment and opportunity, we can strengthen South Dakota’s rural communities.

Johnson speaks at the NorthWestern Energy Summit in Sioux Falls

BIG News

The Rural Health Transformation Program, established through the Working Families Tax Cuts, set aside $50 billion to strengthen rural health care across America. This week, the administration announced South Dakota will receive $90 million to modernize health care technology, expand access to care, support tribal health options, and strengthen the rural health care workforce. I supported this program in Congress, and I’m glad to see these investments reach South Dakota’s rural communities to ensure families can access quality care. This investment will have a significant impact on the future of health care in our state.

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