This week, Washington, D.C., was abuzz with visitors from across the country. From school groups to credit unions to farmers, I met with dozens of Missourians to learn more about their missions and discuss their policy priorities.
Missouri is home to nearly 100,000 farms totaling more than 28 million acres of farmland. Contributing $88 billion annually to Missouri’s economy, agriculture is the No. 1 industry in our state and represents the livelihood of nearly half a million Missourians. This week is National Agriculture Week, an opportunity to honor the hardworking men and women who work day in and day out to feed and clothe our communities and our nation.
I joined fellow Missouri Congressman Sam Graves in a meeting with the Missouri Agricultural Leadership of Tomorrow. Their group is comprised of members from the Missouri Department of Agriculture, farmers and agribusiness leaders from around the state. We had a robust discussion about the Farm Bill signed into law by President Donald Trump last year and how tariffs are affecting farmers in our state. I appreciated the engaging questions from all of the attendees and assured them I will continue fighting for our Missouri agriculture industry.
Later in the week, I had the opportunity to address a great group from the Missouri Farm Bureau in Washington, D.C., where we were joined by the Republican Whip Congressman Steve Scalise. The Missouri Farm Bureau has been an invaluable advocate for our Missouri farmers and rural communities.
Another highlight of the week was meeting with the bright young people representing Agriculture Future of America and the Future Farmers of America. We discussed the importance of agriculture literacy and ensuring Americans remember food does not simply appear on grocery store shelves without the hard work of our farmers. We also discussed the importance of agriculture research funding at institutions like the University of Missouri in Columbia.
Each and every day Americans across the nation enjoy a safe and abundant food supply made possible by our hardworking farmers, ranchers and a skilled agricultural workforce. There are serious issues facing our family farmers and ranchers, but this week, I was inspired by the amazing young people who are ready to tackle them head on. As your Congressman, I will continue to be a tireless advocate for our agriculture industry, ensuring the next generation of farmers will prosper and promote our heartland values.
U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-Mo., shares his perspective each week on national issues, including ones that affect Missouri. He represents the state’s 3rd District, which includes Jefferson City. His local office can be reached at 635-7232.