Farm leaders recently met with members of Illinois’ congressional delegation on Capital Hill to advocate for agriculture issues. Illinois Farm Bureau members during the annual fall Leaders to Washington Program trip went to DC on September 15th.  Issues were raised including labor, input costs, trade, and barriers facing new and beginning farmers. 

IFB’s director of national legislation, Adam Nielsen says that members have a huge impact when they tell their story and help bring important issues to elected leaders and officials. Thirteen members attended the event including Craig Thompson from Mclean County and Robert Klemm from Dewitt. 

Participants were able to bring a range of backgrounds and perspectives to the table, representing local Farm Bureaus, state and local young leaders committees, and the Illinois Agricultural Board.  The trip was three days long and farmers were able to meet directly with elected officials and share firsthand accounts of federal policy and how it affects them. 

Some of the delegates who met with the IFB members included Mike Bost from Murphysboro, Rodney Davis from Taylorville, Adam Kinzinger from Channahon, Darin LaHood from Dunlap, Mary Miller from Oakland, and Lauren Underwood from Naperville.  State Senator Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin were also there.