Congress left town – with work to be done

from TCPA President Jim Sugarek

Washington, DC, looks like a ghost town. Capitol Hill's August recess has begun, meaning, members of Congress have packed their bags and will be stationed in the states and districts they represent until September 9th. Members are always eager for this recess period because it gives them a chance to visit with their families, connect with constituents, and, in the case of it being an election year, do some campaigning ahead of election day. However, they left town without taking care of some important business-namely, reauthorizing the farm bill.

When Congress returns in September, there will only be 39 legislative days left in the year. Couple that with a laundry list of must-pass pieces of legislation, and it becomes clear that the window to get a farm bill passed this year is shrinking. With the shot clock ticking, we must keep up the drumbeat and remind members of Congress of the importance of the farm bill. Here are a few ways you can interact with your elected representatives to keep the farm bill top of mind this August:

1. Schedule a meeting with your elected representatives. Local offices are much less hectic than those in DC. You may find that meeting with your elected representatives in their state or district offices is a much more personalized experience.
2. Attend town halls. Represent your farm and family in a meaningful way by being present at town halls and events held by members of Congress.
3. Invite elected officials to your farm. There is no better way for your elected representatives to learn about agriculture than to get their hands dirty.

If we don't tell our story, someone else will, and with the stakes this high, we cannot afford to slow down our advocacy during August recess. As you engage with members of Congress in your backyard, my team and I will continue to advocate for you and your families here in DC. Together, our advocacy will not go unnoticed.

CLICK HERE for a quick guide to August Recess