Earlier this month The American Farm Bureau held its 99th annual convention and trade show in Nashville, Tennessee. The nation’s Secretary of Agriculture addressed the large gathering of farmers along with President Donald Trump.
“Your voice is powerful,” said Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Purdue. “No longer can we afford to hide behind the gates of our farms and expect the world to tell the truth about what we do, and you know that to be the case.”
Purdue spoke to farmers at the convention about his goal to understand the needs of rural America. In order to understand farmers, Purdue traveled across the country last year in an R.V. to meet with farmers and talk with them on a personal level.
“The result is a report that identifies legislative, regulatory and policy changes to promoted agriculture, economic development, job growth, infrastructure improvements, technological innovation, energy security and quality of life in rural America,” Purdue said.
Purdue said he is working closely with President Trump to improve rural America and noted that a president hasn’t been to the convention since 1992.
“The men and women in this room come from different backgrounds and from all across our land,” Trump said. “But each of you carries the same title that’s been proudly borne by patriots, pioneers, inventors and entrepreneurs - the title of, very proudly, American farmer.”
Trump said the recent tax overhaul is a victory for American family farms and efforts to renegotiate trade will follow.
“To level the playing field, for our great American exporters our farmers and ranchers, as well as our manufacturers - we’re reviewing all of our trade agreements to make sure they are fair and reciprocal,” Trump said.
Purdue identified internet access as one of rural America’s needs to be prosperous.
“That is why today in a few minutes I will take the first step to expand access to broadband internet in rural America,” Trump said.
For his closing remarks:
“We are witnessing a new era of patriotism, prosperity and pride," Trump said. "At the forefront of this exciting new chapter, is the great American farmer. Thank you.”
