Joco Today

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Representative Tracey Mann have taken a lead role in urging President Biden to oppose a proposal before the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Council. The proposal, if accepted, would modify governance and leadership at the FAO, potentially enhancing China's influence within the organization while diminishing American agricultural leadership globally.

The proposed changes include extending the FAO Director-General's tenure to ten years, increasing their salary and allowances, and expanding FAO's control over the U.S.-led World Food Programme. Senator Marshall and his colleagues expressed concerns that these changes could further China's influence in advancing foreign policy goals that might threaten U.S. interests.

"When as many as 700 million people face hunger globally and manmade global conflicts are on the rise, this proposal de-emphasizes any of FAO’s successful efforts to achieve food security and allows China to expand its global influence by taking advantage of America as it transitions political administrations," they stated in their letter.

They further urged President Biden to ensure that American farmers, ranchers, foresters, and agricultural producers maintain their position as global leaders in food and agriculture.

Joining Senator Marshall and Representative Mann in signing the letter were Senators Bill Hagerty, Rick Scott, Joni Ernst, James Risch, along with Representatives Brad Finstad, John Moolenaar, Austin Scott, Dusty Johnson, David Rouzer, Ronny Jackson, Mary Miller, Doug LaMalfa, Trent Kelly, and Mark Alford.