Perdue: “Trump Has Not Forgotten Rural America’s Needs, Contributions”

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Purdue wrote an op-ed in the Lexington Herald-Leader of Kentucky in which he stressed President Donald Trump’s commitment to America’s farmers, ranchers, producers and foresters.

While Congress continues its work on the Farm Bill, rural prosperity, and many other agriculture priorities, this administration remains committed to being a voice for Americas farmers, ranchers, producers, and foresters.

In the 11 months since I was sworn in as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, I have traveled to 35 states, helping fulfill President Donald Trumps promise that the men and women of America, who once felt forgotten, never will again.

First, [President] Trump is committed to ensuring our economy grows and thrives. That is why he led the fight to pass historic tax cuts and reforms back in December, which are already benefiting the agriculture community. When it comes to trading goods and products with our partners and allies, this administration is committed to sending the bounty of American harvest around the globe.

Second, as we all know, our economy cannot succeed without a capable and legal workforce. Trump understands we must have an equipped and competitive workforce. That is one reason why he signed an executive order establishing the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity, which I proudly chaired.

Our task force also stressed the importance of assisting our workforce through infrastructure reforms. Enacting Trumps infrastructure plan would create jobs for our rural workforce and unleash our economys full potential. Infrastructure has been the core of American economic success for more than two centuries. Americas infrastructure needs attention; our nations prosperity is at stake.

Finally, if we are going to encourage the next generation to step forward, we must first tackle the burdensome regulations facing todays industry. Throughout this tour, I have heard from farmers and ranchers who are hamstrung by meddlesome rules. They know that Trump has aggressively and effectively dismantled unnecessary barriers to productivity, eliminating 22 federal regulations for every new rule added. Trumps regulatory agenda meets the needs of rural Americans who are held back by harmful decisions that came from Washington.