Talking food with Barack Obama
by Ari LeVaux
Food and agriculture issues might not make the headlines very often in a presidential race, but they affect everything from health to the economy. That’s why I’ve been trying for weeks to reach the three remaining presidential candidates for some comments on food and agriculture policy. I finally made some headway with the Obama campaign, which invited me to e-mail some questions to the senator. Below is our exchange.

Flash: You voted for the Farm Bill, despite the enormous subsidies it provides to wealthy farmers. Why?

Obama: The Farm Bill has many positive provisions, in particular, an increase in federal funding for the development of renewable fuels, which will help reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil. The legislation provides an additional $10.3 billion for nutrition assistance programs, such as food stamps and school lunches.

Although the Farm Bill is far from perfect, I support the legislation because it recognizes the important role of America’s farmers and ranchers, and the need to develop our rural economy. It is regrettable that John McCain (who voted against it) does not agree.

While the Farm Bill does lower significantly the income limits of farmers eligible for subsidies, it doesn’t provide as much reform as I have advocated.

LINK TO CON.