Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow of Michigan announced recently she won’t be running for reelection in 2024.

 

“Inspired by a new generation of leaders, I’ve decided to pass the torch in the U.S. Senate,” Stabenow said in a statement. “I’m incredibly grateful for the trust the people of Michigan have placed in me.”

 

The four-term senator says a big part of her decision was stepping aside to make room for new voices.  Between now and 2024, Stabenow said she’ll concentrate on passing a new farm bill before she retires.

 

“The farm bill determines our nation’s food and agriculture policies,” she says. “It’s also a key to protecting our land and water and creating jobs in rural and urban communities.”

 

Stabenow has played a big role in several farm bills. Her decision will increase pressure to pass a new farm bill while she’s in office rather than extending the current legislation.

 

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