Government Shutdown Ends: Agricultural Groups React

On Wednesday, marking the end of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, President Trump signed a spending package to reopen the government. This decision followed votes in both the Senate and the House, which took place just hours apart.

In the wake of the shutdown’s conclusion, various agricultural groups and politicians have voiced their opinions, highlighting the importance of swift action for farmers across the nation. Here’s a roundup of reactions from significant agricultural organizations.

Agricultural Groups’ Responses

American Farm Bureau Federation

The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), the largest farmer-run organization in the U.S., expressed relief at the reopening. AFBF President Zippy Duvall stated that the Senate’s action was commendable and urged the House to act quickly. “Farm Bureau commends the Senate for voting to end the government shutdown, ensuring that farmers and ranchers can continue to rely on critical USDA services,” said Duvall.

Corn Refiners Association

John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association (CRA), welcomed the Senate’s decision to reopen government operations. He emphasized the need for continued action, stating, “CRA strongly supports ending the government shutdown and welcomes this important step toward restoring stability for American farmers.” Bode also stressed the necessity for funding the USDA’s BioPreferred Program to ensure its effectiveness.

National Association of Wheat Growers

NAWG CEO Sam Kieffer commended Congress’s decision to reopen the government, noting the vital funding needed for USDA operations. “This action provides critical funding to restart full USDA operations and essential services for America’s farmers,” Kieffer said, also calling for a long-term bipartisan farm bill.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

NCBA Senior VP Ethan Lane highlighted the importance of full government functionality for cattle producers. He thanked lawmakers for their efforts to resolve the shutdown and extended gratitude to the Trump administration for easing burdens during the crisis.

National Corn Growers Association

Jed Bower, President of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), expressed relief regarding federal programs for farm loans and assistance. However, he urged Congress to act quickly on legislation allowing year-round access to E15 to bolster the nation’s energy security.

National Farmers Union

Rob Larew, President of the National Farmers Union (NFU), noted that while reopening the government was positive, it was merely the “bare minimum.” He emphasized the urgent need for reform in the farm safety net to adapt to changing economic realities.

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

Mike Lavender, Policy Director at NSAC, criticized the proposed appropriations bills for lacking substantial support for family farmers, particularly regarding conservation and rural innovation programs. Lavender called for meaningful progress in policy supporting sustainable agriculture.

Plant Based Products Council

James Glueck, Executive Director of PBPC, echoed the importance of government stability and called for robust funding for the ag bioeconomy. He asserted that the USDA’s BioPreferred Program is critical for advancing rural innovation and supporting U.S. farmers.

Reactions from Senators and Representatives

Senator John Boozman

Senator John Boozman emphasized the negative impact of the shutdown on American families, thanking Congress for restoring vital funding and services.

Senator Roger Marshall

Senator Roger Marshall was pleased with the Senate’s decision to reopen government operations, stating, “I’m glad they finally came to their senses.” He expressed eagerness to return to work on advancing agricultural interests.

Representative Angie Craig

Representative Angie Craig voted against the funding bill, arguing that it failed to address healthcare concerns for many Minnesotans. She criticized the bill for not adequately supporting working families.

Representative Mark Messmer

Representative Mark Messmer voiced his approval regarding the passage of the House bill, emphasizing the importance of restoring government functions to support American families in need.

Editor’s note: Some statements have been edited for clarity and conciseness.

This article is structured with appropriate HTML tags, making it easily integratable into WordPress while ensuring it’s well-organized for readability.