Protecting Family Farmers & Ranchers

Family farms and ranches are the backbone of our country, but they face difficult challenges on the road to success. Increasing pressure on production, decreasing profits, and federal red tape have combined to put many family farms and ranches out of business. But the federal government has been slow to respond to this growing crisis.

I will be a Representative who listens to farmers and ranchers, and responds to concerns with common-sense solutions. Growing up, my own family faced pressures that farmers are all-too-familiar with, as we also rode the roller coaster of fast-changing markets and economic times, it was often feast-or-famine in our house. Even before I went to the State Senate, I supported better, more affordable health care for Minnesota farmers as an attorney. In the Senate, I was a consistent partner that family farmers and ranchers could count on. I represent one of the biggest dairy areas in the state, and am proud to do so.

Farmers and ranchers need an engaged advocate. I will support common-sense environmental policies that allow farmers to farm the good land and conserve the rest. I’ll also promote innovation in new farm products, next generation bio-fuels, and renewable energy to promote new opportunities for farmers to diversify their product. It’s time for Congress to recognize that a thriving rural economy is critical to our country’s success.