John Thune: “Mr. Chairman, I also compliment the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Combest) and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Stenholm) and…”

“Mr. Chairman, I also compliment the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Combest) and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Stenholm) and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) for including the George McGovern-Robert Dole International Food for Education in this farm bill. George McGovern is one of South Dakota's native sons, a Senator, candidate for President of this great country, and a humanitarian. Senator Dole is someone that he worked with on both sides of the aisle putting together a bipartisan plan that would help address the needs of needy children around the world. Coming from a farm State, the McGovern-Dole Food Act appeals to South Dakota because of its impact on the agricultural economy. While the food aid is shipped overseas, much of the money stays here in the United States. Domestic beneficiaries of food aid exports include agricultural producers, places like my home State of South Dakota, and suppliers, processors and millers. In addition, food aid leads to food trade. U.S. food aid alleviates poverty and promotes economic growth in recipient countries.”