ALBIA, IOWA – On June 10th, Senator Elizabeth Warren toured Big River Resources in Dyersville, Iowa. She was joined by Focus on Rural America Chair Lt. Gov. Patty Judge, who has served Iowa as Lieutenant Governor and as Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture.
 
“Candidates need to engage meaningfully with rural Americans, and Senator Warren has shown that she is serious about winning back voters lost to Trump. Seeing firsthand how value-added agriculture is providing good jobs and boosting rural economies is key to understanding the priorities for rural communities. I’m grateful that Senator Warren is committed to supporting economic development through biofuels,” said Judge.
 
“Current White House policies are really hurting rural Americans. As farm income falls, President Trump is adding to the pain with his reckless trade negotiations and waivers for oil and gas refineries. Rural Americans need presidential candidates who will stand up for us and partner with us. To win and really contribute in 2020, candidates need to work hard to close the margins in rural counties. That means showing up, listening and partnering on a plan to revitalize these hometowns.” 
 
“I’ve been a longtime supporter of the RFS and renewables like corn ethanol, soy biodiesel and advanced biofuels because they play an important role in our march toward independence from fossil fuels,” Elizabeth Warren said. “Unfortunately, the current administration has broken its promises and undermined a strong RFS through secret waivers for companies like Exxon and Chevron. Farmers are hurting, and they need a partner in the White House who has a clear, predictable policy on renewables and trade. I’m in this fight with them all the way.”

As candidates approach the 2020 caucuses, engaging with rural voters and having a plan that supports rural communities will be critical. Judge is committed to working with all the candidates to ensure rural Iowans are heard and that candidates have a plan to partner with them.