WASHINGTON – Below is a statement from Ranking Member David Scott on Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow's announcement that she will not seek re-election:

“Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow has been an invaluable part of critical food and agriculture legislation since her service on the House Agriculture Committee. She is a tremendous leader for agriculture and a great partner to have in the Senate as we serve as the Democratic leaders of our respective committees. Senator Stabenow’s influence has helped safeguard nutrition funding, promote the diversity and breadth of the specialty crop industry, advance urban agriculture, and protect conservation programs, among countless other issues. I look forward to continuing our work together as we defend Democratic priorities in the next farm bill."