REDWOOD COUNTY, MN – (AgCentral) – On a sunny and unusually mild day at FarmFest, Congressman Brad Finstad addressed constituents, emphasizing the urgency of passing the Farm Bill amidst economic challenges and high inflation. “I’ve been coming here for about 40 years and I don’t know if I’ve ever been here when it’s been this nice,” Finstad remarked.

The fourth-generation farmer highlighted the financial strain faced by farmers due to rising input costs and fluctuating markets. “We have crushing inflation, record high inputs, and a market with sub-four dollar corn and beans around $10. It’s frustrating and hard to figure out how to keep this together for the next generation,” Finstad said.

Finstad underscored the importance of the Farm Bill in providing farmers with risk management tools, including crop insurance, which he believes is crucial for the stability of the agricultural sector. “The Farm Bill is one of those tools that really provide farmers with some certainty,” he explained.

When asked about the major sticking points delaying the bill, Finstad candidly attributed the holdup to politics. “It’s dumb old politics and election year politics,” he stated, criticizing the Senate for lacking a comprehensive proposal. He urged for serious negotiations to ensure the bill meets the needs of today’s farm economy.

Energy policy also emerged as a significant concern among FarmFest attendees. Finstad advocated for renewable fuels and criticized government mandates favoring electric vehicles. “We have to make sure the combustible engine remains an option, especially in places like Minnesota,” he argued.

Addressing the national stage, Finstad commented on Governor Tim Walz being chosen as Kamala Harris’s running mate, calling Walz’s policies a departure from his earlier conservative stance. “The only thing conservative left about Tim Walz is his haircut,” Finstad quipped, highlighting Walz’s record as governor, including tax increases and spending.

 

Click below to listen to full interview…