Caucus Countdown: Day 5

Agriculture and the Iowa Caucuses

Agriculture is a key driver of the Iowa economy. Our state typically leads the nation in the production of corn, soybeans, pork, eggs, ethanol and biodiesel. Iowa is the 2nd largest state, behind California, in the total value of agriculture production.

If Iowa were a country, we would be the 4th largest corn producing country in the world behind the U.S., China, and Brazil and, as of 2015, the 4th largest soybean producing country in the world, behind the U.S., Brazil and Argentina. Nearly one-third of the nation’s hogs are raised in Iowa. Iowa is the number one pork producing state in the U.S. and the top state for pork exports.

As you can see agriculture is very important in our state and as I visit with farmers, these are the issues I hear them saying they want the Presidential candidates from both parties to be talking about around agriculture:

· Consistent tax policy — Farmers face tremendous volatility, almost all of which is beyond their control. Weather, prices, trade relations, input costs and many other factors directly impact the farmer’s bottom line and all are beyond their immediate control. Tax policy shouldn’t be another variable.

· RFS — There has been a lot of talk about the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS), but that is because renewable fuels are so important to the ag economy. It is important candidates understand the importance of renewable fuels industry and have a plan so that there is competition at the pump.

· Trade — Trade is extremely important to agriculture. Iowa is a leading producer and exporter of agricultural products, ranking 2nd among the 50 U.S. states in the value of its agricultural exports. Iowa’s exports help boost farm prices and income, while supporting about 77,300 jobs both on the farm and in related industries such as food processing, transportation, and manufacturing. It is important candidates understand the importance of trade and will work to expand trade opportunities.

· Stopping regulatory overreach — It is important farmers have consistent and predictable regulatory environment. Unfortunately, federal bureaucracies keep creating new areas of concern. The Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS), rulemaking around the RFS, proposed regulations on children working on farms, and many other proposed and final federal rules create real heartburn in agriculture. It is important the President understands the difficulties faced by farmers and will work to limit federal overreach.

As the candidates traveled the state and visited with Iowans I hope they took to heart the feedback they received and have a greater understand and appreciation for the issues facing Iowa farmers.