Bobby Rush: “Unfortunately, Mr. Chairman, I cannot sit here as if this is business as usual when we are currently facing a tragedy…”

I am extremely interested in member cooperatives, and I am looking forward to ways to expand ag co-ops to urban areas.

I am continually concerned about the impact of any new costs on our nation's farmers and, specifically, the energy costs as it relates to minority farmers and consumers.

We on the Agriculture Committee have a special and unique mission to try to help solve the problem of Black farmers in our nation.

I certainly want to thank you, Mr. Chairman. This has been a very, very informative hearing, and I thank you for it.