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Ag leaders pleased with selection of Thune as Senate Majority Leader

Agriculture leaders are pleased that the new Senate Majority Leader understands rural issues. 

South Dakota Republican John Thune was chosen Wednesday morning to succeed Mitch McConnell, and Thune says he’s extremely honored to have earned the support of his colleagues to lead the Senate in the 119th Congress.

Thune’s selection is being praised by ag leaders, including National Farmers Union President Rob Larew. “He’s a friend of agriculture. He understands agriculture. He comes from agriculture. I think those are all winning points for a majority leader, absolutely.”

Ethan Lane with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association agrees. “Senator Thune is from a farm state, and for the cattle industy, a fairly contentious one, so he understands those challenges. He understands what it looks like to broker some compromises there. We’re excited about him. “

Economist John Newton from Terrain says Thune understands agriculture. “I got to go with him on a farm visit, with Senator Boozman on a farm bill listening session, and he is one of the most knowledgable senators we have on the farm billb and on ag policy.”

The ag leaders participated in a panel discussion about the recent election during the National Association of Farm Broadcasting Convention Wednesday in Kansas City.