WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner highlighting the need to pass a strong Farm Bill. Its passage would provide stability for farmers and ranchers while strengthening U.S. national security and geopolitical influence.
“The United States is a world leader in agricultural exports, and North Dakota is a net exporter, meaning we grow much more than our state of roughly 775,000 people consumes. You need North Dakota durum wheat for your pasta in Manhattan, edible beans for food aid in Sudan, and soybeans for hog meal in China. With so much of our products going to feed a hungry country and world, it is all the more important we pass a strong farm bill to support our producers,” wrote Senator Cramer.
“Agriculture is a generational, family-based business. Producers have an inherent interest in taking care of their land and ensuring its productivity for generations to come. They know how to balance conservation and productive land use better than any bureaucrat in Washington. Farmers and ranchers fundamentally recognize the importance of healthy land because it is the foundation for their livelihoods. Across North Dakota, we painstakingly nurture and grow the crops to feed millions. You might not believe those of us in this rectangular blank spot in the middle of North America are deeply connected with the rest of the globe. But I would wager we know it better than most,” continued Senator Cramer.
“No matter where you are in the world, food does not magically appear on the table. Our agriculture industry is not simply about what shows up at grocery stores, restaurants, and markets. Food is a daily necessity, and our producers depend on consistent support in a strong farm bill. Smart, efficient federal programs allow farmers and ranchers to mitigate risk while maintaining strong food supply chains and promoting American leadership abroad. When we support and assist producers, we enable them to better feed, fuel, and clothe the world,” concluded Senator Cramer.
Source: Kevin Cramer
