On January 31st, I attended the Farmer’s Union Convention after previously attending the Farmer’s Listening Lunch. We had important conversations and information was relayed between our state’s farmers, policymakers, and leaders. One critical message emerged among all the discussions and it was, the agricultural industry is facing a crisis with current policies. Farmers across the Buckeye State relayed how input costs have hurt their pockets from seed costs, to machinery, to electricity/utility prices. While our local farmers struggle with their bills, a shrinking market due to tariffs hurts production of soybeans making the margins slimmer for those struggling. Additionally, healthcare costs are rising for farmers due to Max Miller’s vote for the “Big Beautiful Bill”. 

From Lima to right here in Ohio’s 7th District, rising costs and a shrinking market are putting our nation’s farmers at risk and in debt.

What our farmers need is a Farm Bill that helps relieve their pockets and do the hard work of feeding our nation. Farmers also deserve government officials who listen to them and speak the truth. They’re tired of false promises and yes-man, like Max Miller who allows our farmers to fall behind nations like China.

The system is leading to monopolization where only a handful of wealthy individuals control inputs and markets making life for working Ohioans harder.” While discussions lead to exchanging of ideas and laying groundwork for solutions it is clear that Ohio farmers need action and leadership now.

Farmers in Ohio’s 7th District need a fighter to deliver for them and I am ready to fight for them:

Fair Market Competition — Break up monopolistic agribusiness corporations that suppress commodity prices, ensuring Ohio farmers receive fair market value for their crops and livestock.

Family Farm Preservation — Expand USDA loan programs and tax incentives to help young and beginning farmers afford land, keeping farms in family hands rather than corporate ones.

Rural Infrastructure — Direct federal funding to repair rural roads, bridges, and grain infrastructure while expanding high-speed internet access so Ohio farm operations can compete in the modern economy.

Climate-Smart Agriculture Fund — Create voluntary, farmer-friendly grants for cover cropping, no-till farming, and wetland restoration — reducing input costs while protecting Ohio’s soil and water.

Crop Insurance Modernization — Strengthen and expand federal crop insurance to cover increasingly unpredictable weather events hitting Ohio, with reduced premiums for small and mid-size family operations.

Local Food Systems Investment — Fund farm-to-school programs, regional food hubs, and farmers markets to help Ohio growers access new markets and keep food dollars in the state.