WASHINGTON — On Dec. 7, the House Republican Steering Committee announced that it elected Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) as chairman of House Agriculture Committee when Congress is sworn in during 2023.

Thompson has served on the committee for more than a decade with a stint as ranking member during the last two years. 

“The political landscape in Washington may be fractured, but as Chairman, I will prioritize the needs of our producers and rural communities — the backbone of this country,” Thompson said in a statement. “We will keep our foot on the gas to deliver principled solutions, robust oversight, and a Farm Bill that is responsive to the needs of the country’s farmers, ranchers, and foresters.”

David Scott (D-Ga.) the outgoing chairman congratulated Thompson on his new position. 

“As I prepare to hand the gavel over to Mr. Thompson, I wish him the best in this role,” Scott said. “I am encouraged by the bipartisan work we have accomplished together, particularly around our shared interest in broadband and access to USDA programs for our new and small producers. Heading into the 2023 Farm Bill, I am hopeful and prayerful that the collegial spirit will continue and that the Agriculture Committee will be able to deliver a farm bill with strong Republican and Democratic bipartisan support.”

After the announcement, the North American Meat Institute shared its support of Thompson as the choice to lead agricultural affairs in the House of Representatives.  

“Chairman Thompson has been an outspoken supporter of the meat and poultry industry and we congratulate him on his selection by his colleagues to serve as Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee,” said Julie Anna Potts, president and chief executive officer of the Meat Institute. “He will provide strong leadership as the Congress tackles a new Farm Bill and we look forward to working with him in his new role.”