Thank you, undersecretary, for being here today. 

USDA has the potential to play an important role in American agriculture and nutrition. 

Sadly, despite the hard work and professionalism of the civil service at USDA, the Trump administration and their collaborators in Congress have undermined critical aspects of its core mission. 

Expanding market access for family farmers. Ensuring adequate nutrition and food assistance is available for America’s young, old and disabled. Advancing evidence-based and science-backed approaches to innovation.  

Too often these days – and to the detriment of America’s hardworking rural communities – partisan politics have taken priority. 

Cuts to food assistance. Tariffs and trade wars. Cuts to USDA staff. High input costs. Disappearing margins. 

The Trump administration says it puts “Farmers First.” But its approach to farm country has been farm from it. 

I hope that USDA can continue its mission to help farmers struggling with severe weather, disrupted markets and tough economic conditions caused by the president’s tariffs, trade wars and war with Iran. 

My concern is that the agriculture secretary and president will make that harder than it needs to be, and that farm families will ultimately pay the price. 

I yield back.