As a longtime farmer herself, Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith received the endorsement of a group named “Farmers for Cindy”. For Hyde-Smith and many of the farmers in attendance, the temperatures in the 90’s with a beating sun to go along with them were nothing new.
As Hyde-Smith addressed the crowd, she spoke of a new farm bill, which was passed by the Senate Agriculture Committee earlier this week. The new bill, if passed through the Senate, would work to strengthen safety net programs and builds on trade-related programs for American Farmers.
Hyde-Smith is clearly familiar with agriculture and all that it entails in Mississippi after serving as the Commissioner of Agriculture since 2011 before being appointed to Senator Thad Cochran’s seat. Hyde-Smith told the crowd that she pushed back against portions of the bill that would have “negatively affected” Mississippi. Those portions were taken out, and she was able to get four of her own amendments in the bill.
While there is still work to be done on the bill and she’s still new to D.C., Hyde-Smith says that she knows that she belongs.
“This is the opportunity of three lifetimes,” she said. “This week, sitting on Capitol Hill discussing the Farm bill, I realized right then, I’m right where I’m supposed to be.”
During her remarks, the Senator continued to discuss what it’s like being the newest Senator in Washington, and how she’s ready for the challenge of earning the respect of those around her.
“I’m working to gain respect because I know that’s not handed to you. Just because you get appointed by a popular Governor, doesn’t mean you gain respect right when you walk in there. I know I’m number 100. The guy from Alaska was really glad when I got there because he’s 99 now, and I’m 100. But, I understand that, and I really feel prepared to do what we need to be doing [in D.C.].”
Hyde-Smith was also able to tout the success she had in negotiations with China as they are now able to buy Mississippi beef, and she said that she looks forward to continuing trade negotiations on behalf agriculture in Mississippi and across the country.
‘Farmers for Cindy’ is a network of Mississippi farmers, ranchers and agricultural industry leaders from across the state. The organization was formed by volunteers to help see that the agricultural interests of Mississippi remain protected in Washington, D.C. A news release from the Senator included the reaction of several farmers across the state.
“As a fellow cattle farmer, I know that Cindy has the work ethic needed to get the job done in Washington. While fewer and fewer elected officials in Washington understand and appreciate the importance of Americas’ farm families, I have no doubt that Cindy will have our best interest in mind on every vote she casts in the United States Senate.”- Doug Rogers, Covington County
As for her campaign efforts, Hyde-Smith feels confident ahead of the election, but it will continue to take maximum effort. The Senate’s August recess was recently canceled, and Hyde-Smith says that she’s ready to work hard during the week, and campaigning on the weekends.
“We don’t come home and relax on the weekend, and we definitely will not until after November 6th,” Hyde-Smith said.
Hyde-Smith is running against state Senator Chris McDaniel (R, former Congressman Mike Espy (D), and Gautier resident Tobey Bartee (D).
