Peterson presser

Here is a 10-minute audio link from the House Agriculture Committee lovefest press conference yesterday. You will hear House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson talk about the process. He makes the point that the end product was better than predicted, as he once said everyone may be equally unhappy with the budget-restricted farm bill. While there are things some people wanted more of - farm program reform, more conservation funds, more f/v money - by and large, people are on board. You will also hear the remarks of ranking member Bob Goodlatte of Virginia, remarks from a member from Oregon not on the committee applauding the inclusiveness of this farm bill. Finally, you will hear the remarks of Rep. Dennis Cardoza, who has been so instrumental as chair of the hort subcommittee in securing mandatory funds for f/v priorities.

It is good to see genuine bipartisanship in action for agriculture issues. Now we will see if supporters of the farm bill can herd it through the full House without major changes.