Like a lot of farm kids, as early as I can remember, I was helping around the farm and driving equipment.

Farming certainly hasn’t gotten any easier over the years, no thanks to Salem politicians.

Like many of you, farming is my livelihood. But I also have the honor of representing my community in the Albany area in the Oregon State Legislature. During my short time in Salem, I’ve learned a hard truth: Oregon politicians aren’t listening to farmers, and they are not friendly to agriculture.

That’s why I started Save the Family Farm. This isn't just about defending our livelihoods. It’s about showing appreciation for the farmers and ranchers who feed us and keep our local communities strong. It’s about pursuing people and policies that will allow and encourage agricultural opportunities to make our state and economy stronger.

There are thousands of Oregonians out there doing the hard work to provide for their family through a career in agriculture. But thanks to politicians’ constant tax increases and regulations, making this career pencil is getting harder and harder.

It’s not easy, but you are essential. So, from the bottom of my heart, Thank you to all the farmers and ranchers out there. Thank you for the sacrifices you make for your family and for loving the land of which you toil. Your commitment to this work motivates me every day.

I hope you will join our efforts to fight to protect Oregon's agriculture and create a state where the next generation wants to continue farming in Oregon.