WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement on the confirmation of Sonny Perdue as Agriculture Secretary and the future of the next Farm Bill:
“I congratulate Sonny Perdue for being confirmed as Secretary of Agriculture. When I met with Secretary Perdue earlier this year, I was heartened by his knowledge of agriculture and his passion for this important industry. North Carolina is a significant contributor to America’s agricultural output and I am confident that Secretary Perdue will be a wonderful addition to the President’s cabinet and a perfect fit for USDA.
“As Chairman Roberts and Ranking Member Stabenow continue early discussions on the next Farm Bill, I want the agricultural community in North Carolina to know I will be actively engaged with the Senate Agriculture Committee during this time. Through my meetings with farmers and agribusiness groups, it’s clear that we must address various concerns to give North Carolina the support and flexibility needed to continue towards the goal of a $100 billion agricultural industry. The recent growing seasons have been tough on our farmers. From near-historic low prices to natural disasters and increased labor costs, North Carolina farmers need the next Farm Bill to continue supporting our commodities while making the necessary reforms that allow support mechanisms to be helpful when needed. The American farmer and rancher supply the world with the safest, most affordable, abundant food supply. Notwithstanding current economic challenges, the American agricultural sector is resilient and impressive. Our farmers are the most efficient in the world and their productivity is the main reason Americans spend such a low percentage of their income on food. Given that global food demand is expected to increase substantially by 2050, the world cannot afford for American agriculture to decline. The next Farm Bill needs to build off the successes of the last and make reforms to programs that clearly need additional work. I look forward to working with Chairman Roberts and Ranking Member Stabenow during these important discussions.”
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