Former Senator Dole Remembered For Service To Agriculture

The legacy of former Kansas Senator Bob Dole is notable throughout USDA, including one program that is in part named in his honor.  The USDA’s Rod Bain has a look back.

Farm groups are also reflecting on Dole’s lifetime of service.

Renewable Fuels Association president and CEO Geoff Cooper called Dole a “champion for the underdog”, saying that the ethanol industry would not exist as it does today without Dole’s efforts in Congress to support American farmers.  Cooper went on to note Dole’s work alongside members of both parties to create and maintain tax incentives that he says helped level the playing field for ethanol and give the industry a competitive chance.

National Corn Growers Association CEO Jon Doggett also paid tribute, noting that Dole was, “crucial in forging important and long-lasting coalitions to pass Farm Bills through Congress, at times having to navigate steep budget cuts to do so.”  Calling the senator a war hero and true statesman, Doggett suggested that Dole’s legacy should, “remind us all that when we connect through humor and work together, we can tackle major issues for this great country.”

Missouri Senator Roy Blunt posted his reflections Sunday on Twitter:

For decades, Missouri Republicans considered Bob Dole as our third United States Senator. His quick wit and his keen understanding of America’s role in the world were always part of any conversation you had with him. A great life, well lived.

— Senator Roy Blunt (@RoyBlunt) December 5, 2021