By Jamie Martin
The National Farmers Union (NFU) opened its annual Legislative Fly-In on Monday, drawing more than 250 farmers and ranchers from across the country to Washington, D.C. Their mission: to push Congress for immediate action on policies that affect the future of American agriculture.
During the first day, participants met with officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). Farmers shared firsthand accounts of financial pressures, rising costs, and challenges created by market concentration. They called for expanded support through USDA agencies and stronger DOJ action to rein in corporate monopolies.
“Farm country is facing a crisis, and America’s family farmers and ranchers need their elected representatives to listen to the challenges they’re facing and take action,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “Farmers are earning less than ever, consumers are paying more and corporate profits are soaring. Our members are here to remind Congress not to leave farmers and ranchers behind.”
“Farmers and rural communities are at a breaking point,” said NFU Vice President Jeff Kippley. “Farmers Union members have come to Washington to demand action before we lose even more family farms. They’re here not only to advocate for themselves, but for every family who deserves fair prices at the grocery store and every community whose future depends on the vitality and sustainability of American agriculture.”
For the next two days, NFU members will walk Capitol Hill to meet with congressional leaders, including members of the House and Senate agriculture committees. The completion of the five-year farm bill is their central demand, alongside urgent financial assistance for struggling producers and policies that ensure the long-term vitality of family farming.
Categories: National