The American Farm Bureau Federation presented Rep. Kristi Noem (R-S.D.) with AFBF’s Golden Plow award on March 8. The Golden Plow is the highest honor the organization gives to sitting members of Congress.
“It’s leaders like Kristi Noem of South Dakota who work hard to plow fertile ground…and harvest policies that help our farmers and ranchers remain on the land and stay productive,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We are honored to have Representative Noem here to accept this award, in recognition of her superior leadership on behalf of U.S. agriculture and in support of Farm Bureau’s grassroots policy.”
The South Dakota Farm Bureau endorsed Noem for the award because of her commitment in Congress to issues important to farmers and ranchers. South Dakota Farm Bureau appreciates that the representative’s priorities align with those of its members.
“She is an effective lawmaker – building relationships to collaborate and get things done to benefit agriculture in our state and across the country,” said AFBF Vice President Scott VanderWal, who also serves as president of SDFB.
Noem currently serves on the House Ways and Means Committee and the Energy and Commerce Committee. Her work in the House includes fearless advocacy in the fight against the estate tax. As lead sponsor of the Death Tax Repeal Act, she helped ensure that estate tax relief was included in the House-passed tax reform bill.
Noem is also the lead sponsor of bills to repeal the health insurance tax, extend the biodiesel tax credit and help local businesses compete against internet-only retailers by allowing states to collect taxes on internet sales.
AFBF’s Golden Plow award recognizes members of Congress who exemplify agricultural leadership and support of Farm Bureau policies. Recipients are chosen for having a philosophy or record that demonstrates a commitment to sound agricultural policies supported by Farm Bureau, the private enterprise system, fiscal conservatism and reduced federal regulation of businesses and individuals.
