Political Quotes

“this amendment proposes that the House of Representatives arbitrarily declare what crops a farmer can and cannot grow. I am concerned that this amendment is being sponsored by those who do not represent the areas affected--members who are from urban areas. This amendment is opposed by those who represent the communities that will be affected, those people who are closest to the land, and those who care the most for the land because it is where they live and where they raise their children. This amendment is targeted at the Klamath Basin--an area that has seen its farmers and entire economy devastated by actions taken by the federal government. I have traveled to the Klamath Basin and seen the effects first-hand. I also represent two very large reclamation projects--including one of the largest in the country--and the success of these farmers comes from their hard work, the care they give the land and diversity of their crops. Passage of this amendment would set a very bad precedent of the government stating what crops can be grown and which can't. The impacts of the amendment would directly harm farmers and communities. The precedent it is sets would be far-reaching and very detrimental. I urge my colleagues to oppose the amendment.”