MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Marshall Discusses Iran Agreement, Housing, Farm Bill and Kansas Economy During BW Morning Show Appearance
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall says a new agreement involving Iran could help reduce tensions in the Middle East while lowering fuel and fertilizer costs for American consumers.
During a recent interview, Marshall said Kansans are weary of prolonged military conflicts and remain focused on economic concerns such as the cost of gasoline, groceries and fertilizer.
Marshall said the agreement includes a commitment by Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons and noted that shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has resumed. He said increased oil flow through the critical shipping lane is already helping ease fuel prices and could also bring relief to fertilizer markets.
“Most importantly, Iran has agreed, no more nukes,” Marshall said.
The senator acknowledged Iran is not a trusted partner and emphasized that any agreement must include strict verification measures.
“We don't trust them, but again, what I do know is the Strait of Hormuz is open, this killing, the shooting has stopped for now,” Marshall said.
Marshall also discussed a bipartisan housing bill advancing through the Senate. He said housing affordability and availability continue to be among the most significant challenges facing communities across Kansas.
According to Marshall, the legislation is expected to receive broad bipartisan support and would streamline regulations, improve access to capital, and encourage additional housing development.
As lawmakers continue working on a new Farm Bill, Marshall highlighted several priorities, including rural broadband expansion, conservation programs and childcare assistance.
He said a provision he authored would allow USDA loan programs to be used for childcare centers, helping address one of the most pressing issues facing rural communities.
Marshall also pointed to recent federal investments aimed at supporting agriculture, including crop insurance funding, farm assistance programs, and rural health initiatives.
While exports for commodities such as corn, ethanol and beef have shown strength, Marshall said high input costs remain a major concern for producers.
“If we could just get the input cost down, fertilizer and diesel, then that's what's going to flip the switch here for the ag economy,” he said.
Among his top agricultural priorities is passage of year-round E15 fuel sales, which he said would significantly increase demand for corn and provide another market for Kansas farmers.
“If you ask my staff what is our number one priority to agriculture, the answer is one through three: E15, E15 and E15,” Marshall said.
The senator also expressed optimism about Kansas manufacturing and aviation, citing strong demand for aircraft production and continued growth in the aerospace sector.
Marshall said companies such as Boeing and Textron continue to see strong demand, helping drive economic growth across the state.