Most Nebraskans who live in agricultural communities understand that farming and ranching is not just a job. It is a way of life. It is built on long days, hard decisions, and a deep love for the land.
It is also built by more than 1.2 million female ag producers. That is why I introduced a resolution earlier this year celebrating the designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. I am proud to say that it has passed the Senate, sending an important message here at home and around the world.
Every single day, women across America work to feed, fuel, and clothe our world. They do some of the most physically demanding, technically complex, and economically risky jobs there are. These women are leading operations, managing finances, adopting new technologies, and strengthening our rural communities — often while raising families and juggling responsibilities that don’t show up on a balance sheet. They are doing it all, and they are doing it well.
Before coming to the U.S. Senate, I had the honor of representing countless farmers and ranchers in the Nebraska Legislature. Their voices, their challenges, and their successes still guide me.
With 2026 designated as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, we are formally recognizing the women who have always been essential to agriculture.
I want to encourage women and girls to see agriculture as a place where they belong and can thrive. We must ensure that women in agriculture not only have a seat at the table, but the support they need once they’re there — whether that’s access to capital, research, land, or leadership opportunities. This is one reason why I introduced my Precision Ag Package, which is composed of three bills that aim to lessen the financial burden of adopting innovative technologies and reliable network connectivity to support farm and ranch operations.
I’m proud to champion these women through my work and legislation. Please join me in celebrating their achievements, learning from their experiences, and making sure our agricultural systems work for everyone who contributes to them.
Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.