The House Agriculture Committee is drawing the attention of Democrats who are considering bids to become the party’s top member of the Committee, after the current Ranking Member, Angie Craig (D-MN), leaves Congress at the end of her term. California Representative, Jim Costa (D-Tulare), is viewed as a leading contender, along with Representative Shontel Brown (D-Ohio) who has indicated she plans to formally launch a bid for the position once relevant primaries conclude.
While it is too early to know what will transpire, this leadership contest could take on added significance if midterms result in a flip of the House for the 120th Congress, resulting in a new committee chair. Craig’s successor, whether they find themselves vying for position as Ranking Member or as Committee Chair, will help shape the committee’s agenda, including work on a new Farm Bill; restoring funding cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); addressing reductions at the U.S. Department of Agriculture; and responding to rising food prices.
For more information, contact RCRC Senior Vice President of Government Relations, Mary-Ann Warmerdam.