Kentucky Corn Growers Advocate for Farmers in D.C.

By Blake Jackson

Last week, Kentucky corn growers traveled to Washington, D.C., to take part in the National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) Corn Congress.

Their mission was to ensure that the voices of farmers from the Commonwealth were clearly heard in key policy discussions on Capitol Hill. These farmer-leaders stepped away from their operations not for personal gain, but to advocate on behalf of all Kentucky corn producers.

“It was an important week for Kentucky growers to share their experiences directly with those shaping our farm policy at the national level. We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring forward the real challenges our farmers are facing and to advocate for practical solutions that support the future of agriculture," said Josh Lancaster, President of the Kentucky Corn Growers Association. "Kentucky’s corn growers are committed to being part of the conversation and progress.”

More than 300 corn farmers gathered at Corn Congress to shape NCGA’s policy priorities. Congressman Brett Guthrie, a Kentuckian and Chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, joined the event to discuss energy security and the vital role of ethanol. A historic milestone was reached as Brandon Hunt became the first Kentuckian elected to the NCGA Board of Directors.

While in D.C., KYCGA leaders held meetings with multiple Kentucky congressmen, senators, the USDA, and the Treasury Department. They also visited the White House and spoke with officials from the Trump Administration, EPA, and U.S. Trade Representative’s office about issues including biofuels, trade, and farm policy.

KYCGA collaborated with the American Farm Bureau Federation to develop strategies for addressing challenges in agriculture. Farmers shared firsthand stories about the difficulties they face, highlighting the urgency of enacting practical solutions to secure farm profitability.

Among their key issues was finalizing year-round E15 access, a move that could utilize 2.3 billion more bushels of corn and offer benefits like lower emissions and fuel costs. Trade concerns were also emphasized.

“I went to Washington because we’re feeling the pressure at home. Inputs like fertilizer are harder to get and more expensive than ever, and that’s directly tied to trade challenges," said Brandon Robey, KYCGA board member and first-generation farmer. "We need policies that open supply chains and stabilize markets. I didn’t go just for me. I went to speak up for every farmer facing the same uncertainty."

Photo Credit: gettyimages-rarrarorro