By Julie Tomascik
Editor

U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) was elected as the next chair of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee, which is charged with legislative oversight relating to U.S. agriculture, forestry, nutrition and rural development.

Thompson, who was elected by the House Republican Steering Committee, is the first chairman from Pennsylvania in nearly 170 years. He will step into the role in 2023.

“I am honored to lead the Committee on Agriculture and build on the accomplishments of the past two years as ranking member. The political landscape in Washington may be fractured, but as chairman, I will prioritize the needs of our producers and rural communities—the backbone of this country,” Thompson said. “We will keep our foot on the gas to deliver principled solutions, robust oversight and a farm bill that is responsive to the needs of the country’s farmers, ranchers and foresters.”

Thompson was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2008. He served as the ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee for the 117th Congress and vice chair during the 116th Congress. He’s also served as chair of the Subcommittees on Conservation and Forestry and Nutrition, and ranking member of the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management.

With serious challenges facing agriculture, underscored by even deeper concerns in margins and input costs, farm bill discussions will be key in 2023, as Thompson assumes the leadership role.

Those concerns, along with discussions on drought conditions, disaster assistance and other issues related to Texas agriculture and rural communities, were discussed with Thompson when he visited Texas Farm Bureau leaders and members during a trip to the state in November.

“Texas Farm Bureau congratulates Congressman Thompson on being selected to serve as the next chairman of the U.S. House Ag Committee,” said TFB President Russell Boening. “He is a steadfast champion for agriculture who has visited Texas regularly to learn about the issues impacting farm and ranch families in our state. He has also made it a point to visit with farmers and ranchers across the country to ensure specific needs are addressed in the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill. We look forward to our continued work with Chairman-elect Thompson to achieve success for American agriculture.”

The position is currently held by Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.), who was elected in December 2020.