Congressman Salazar: We Need to Keep Our Commitment to Family Farmers

Salazar Appointed to Commodities and Livestock Subcommittees

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Salazar, the freshman farmer from rural Colorado, released the following statement in response to USDA Secretary Johanns’ appearance before the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee today to discuss allocations for agriculture programs. Salazar expressed his concern that the Administration’s proposed budget cuts will increase the United States’ dependence on foreign food and will place the burden of the deficit on the backs of our farmers.

“I’ve been running the family ranch for several years and I know what it means to work within a budget. You may have to count your pennies, but you spend your money where it matters most to you and your community. Our nation’s agriculture is the backbone of our economy. We cannot allow our farm communities to be neglected. Congress’ Contract with America should make a commitment to family farmers and ensure a safe, affordable, domestic food supply.

“I have always said that there are only two things that can bring this country down - our dependence on other countries to produce our food and our dependence on foreign oil. Agriculture must become a real part of our renewable energy supply. Research and education are the only way we can grow and develop these new technologies - it is shortsighted to cut agriculture research programs by $350 million.

“The majority of farms in the Third Congressional District are family owned and operated and we must continue funding for programs that keep farmers on the land.  In the 2002 Farm bill, Congress made a commitment to restore the farm safety net - the deal made with taxpayers is working, and we have spent $15 billion less than what was expected when the farm bill passed.

“We must work towards balancing our budget, but we need to look at all the numbers before making any decisions - farm program spending accounts for less than one-half of one percent of the federal budget. We cannot pass the burden of the deficit onto the backs of our farmers. Cutting farm programs will not make a dent in the deficit, but it will devastate family farmers."

Salazar is one of only 28 farmers in Congress and a member of the House Agriculture Committee. Salazar was recently appointed to the General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Subcommittee and the Livestock and Horticulture Subcommittee.”