When I announced my campaign, I did an interview on BYU-I Radio. During the interview, I mentioned the need for more voices from agriculture to serve In Idaho’s government. After the interview was shared on social media, some comments suggested that we already had enough “farmers” in office.
The commenters didn’t go into detail, but it suggested a big disconnect. Today’s farmers need to do more than work the land. They also need to understand finance, water law, marketing, tax policy, and risk management, to name just a few of their additional responsibilities.
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to sit down with the local board of the Idaho Farm Bureau in Madison County. The discussion went well beyond ag policy and included issues like education, infrastructure, and healthcare. Like any other business, farmers need skilled workers, dependable roads, and access to affordable healthcare.
It’s also clear that Idaho’s farmers are invested in our state’s future success. Even as our urban areas expand, agriculture will continue to play a significant role. Despite what a few may think, our communities and state will benefit if farmers choose to serve in public office. Here’s hoping a few more will step up in the years to come.