The only way we're going to do that is by embracing science and investing in science.

Net farm income remains strong, and the farm debt-to-asset ratio is at a record low today.

My view of this is that we need a consistent definition.

It is important, I think, for this country to have a different definition and understanding of what constitutes rural.

I think in a bipartisan way Republicans and Democrats should agree that when it comes to foreign food aid, that's a program we shouldn't cut.

I would rather help people and create a positive feeling toward our country versus responding to chaos when chaos erupts.

This is one of those issues that you are confronting where you are trying to balance a variety of needs and requirements.

the more opportunity in research that we can do, the better, as far as I am concerned, and that is why, you know, we are making the case that we need to invest more in research.

Let me assure you that it is a priority of mine. The local and regional food system is an important component of rebuilding the rural economy, and it will continue.

We believe it is appropriate and necessary for us to modernize our inspection process to really focus attention and time on the areas where we know pathogen risks are greatest.

We respect the request, but I would point out that in addition to sequester, Congress also added an additional 2.7 percent cut to this budget.

I personally, as you can tell, don't believe these riders were a good idea, I think they should be corrected.