FarmPolicy

UPDATED 8.23: Farm Bill in Focus at South Dakota Congressional Debate

Ben Dunsmoor reported today at Keloland Television Online that, “The stalled Farm Bill took center stage as South Dakota Congresswoman Kristi Noem and Democratic challenger Matt Varilek squared off in their first debate Wednesday at Dakotafest in Mitchell.”

UPDATE- (“Noem, Varilek debate farm bill“) by David Montgomery, posted Wednesday at the Argus Leader Online stated that, “Democratic House candidate Matt Varilek hammered Rep. Kristi Noem over the stalled progress of the farm bill at their first debate Wednesday.

“But Noem swung right back, accusing Varilek of supporting expansive government and a cap-and-trade program.”

The article added that, “[Varilek] repeatedly returned to the farm bill, accusing Noem of not supporting an effort to force a vote and of not being vocal at meetings of the House Agriculture Committee.

“‘We might not be in this situation if my opponent had been more focused on ag issues longer ago,’ Varilek said.”

Mr. Montgomery noted that, “Noem defended her record, arguing she was working hard to pass a farm bill and it was the fault of Congressional Democrats the bill hasn’t yet passed. She accused Varilek of lying and making up facts.

“‘There was so much spin in that story that Matt almost fell out of his chair,’ Noem said after Varilek criticized her position on forcing a vote on the farm bill. While Noem chose not to lead that effort, she said Wednesday she plans to support it if there’s still no progress when Congress reconvenes in September.”

-kg

Posted by Keith Good • August, 22, 2012 • 6:51 pm