Federal policies and regulations can have an outsized impact on the economy of rural America.

Competition is high, but also in these rural communities they do not have the ability to get the grant writers.

You know, we say one thing, and yet--and again, you are the Federal Government. I am the Federal Government. We cannot continue to put additional burdens that actually go against what we are saying.

The actions of this Administration have certainly not been good for rural quality of life.

If your boots on the ground are not there, it is not happening.

Unfortunately, the current economic and policy environment is far from stable for our rural communities.

Since President Biden has taken office, food prices have increased by more than eight percent.

There is no question that families in rural America need access to affordable, quality health care, child care, and elder care in their communities.

Shouldn't we be doing everything in our power to address this and other issues that will very likely negatively impact global commodity markets for years to come?

Access to safe and reliable water is critical for all Americans.

I want to thank you and Chairman Carper for having this so, so very important hearing.