‘Do Your Work’

Nearly 100 farmers took time away from the planter this past week to bring their message to Congress. The National Farmers Union ‘Week of Action’ is focused on passing a five-year farm bill; legislation strengthening the farm safety net, promoting voluntary conservation programs and delivering support for farmers and consumers. Minnesota Farmers Union President Gary Wertish admits that may be a big lift in the current political environment. “We’ve gotten into more partisan politics and you can blame both sides of the aisle,” said Wertish. “We really need to come back together and figure out how to get things done.” Ted Winter represents southwest Minnesota on the MFU executive committee. After two farm bill extensions, Winter is frustrated. “We need to have Congress do their work; they need to pass a farm bill, pass the budget bills and do the work that reflects the values and needs of the people across our entire country. That’s their job.”