Stutzman: Strong farm policy will lead to a strong America

By U.S. Representative Marlin Stutzman

As a fourth-generation farmer, I know firsthand the hard work, resilience and innovation that goes into feeding America. From the fields of Indiana to dinner tables across the country, our farmers play a critical role in ensuring we have access to affordable, high-quality food.

However, strong agriculture does not happen by accident; it requires common-sense policies that support our farmers, protect our resources, and open doors to innovation and opportunity.

America’s farmers and ranchers produce more with less, using cutting-edge science and technology to grow
our food efficiently while preserving our land for future generations. In Indiana, we see this daily—farmers
adopting precision agriculture, improving soil health and strengthening farm-to-table supply chains. This commitment to sustainability and innovation is why the United States enjoys the most abundant and affordable food supply in the world.

We cannot take this success for granted. American agriculture faces significant challenges, from volatile markets and rising input costs to burdensome regulations and unfair trade barriers.

Adding to these concerns is the growing threat of foreign adversaries purchasing U.S. farmland, particularly the Chinese Communist Party. Our farmland is more than just real estate; it is a vital asset that must be protected.
We cannot allow those who do not share our values to control the land that sustains our country.

Strong agricultural policy, especially through the upcoming Farm Bill, will be essential to providing stability
and opportunity for our producers. The Farm Bill is a roadmap to secure our nation’s food supply, strengthen
rural communities, and ensure farmers have the tools they need to succeed. It must:

• Support responsible risk management programs that safeguard against unpredictable weather and market fluctuations.
• Prioritize trade policies that level the playing field for American producers, ensuring our agricultural goods can compete in global markets.
• Bolster rural infrastructure, from broadband expansion to better transportation networks.
• Protect American farmland from foreign ownership and ensure it remains in the hands of those who feed and sustain our country.

As a business owner and farmer, I understand the importance of policies that empower — not hinder — our producers. Whether it is fighting against regulatory overreach, ensuring access to agricultural financing, or pushing for fair trade agreements, I will always be a voice for Indiana’s farmers in Washington.

Agriculture is not just an industry; it is a way of life. It is the backbone of our rural economy and the key to our nation’s security. I remain committed to ensuring that Indiana’s farmers have the resources, support, and
freedom they need to continue feeding America — today and for generations to come.