Edwards receives nod from Texas Farm Bureau

By MINDY POEHL | Central Texas Edition

U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco, received the endorsement of the Texas Farm Bureau, Aug. 4, in his bid to represent the newly redrawn District 17. Edwards faces state Rep. Arlene Wohlgemuth,R-Burleson. Pollution of the North Bosque River and Lake Waco downstream has pitted the City of Waco and upstream dairy farmers against each other. The issue will be a main topic in the election. Photo by Mindy Poehl

August 12, 2004 - The Texas Farm Bureau Friends of Agriculture Fund, Inc. (AGFUND) endorsed U.S. Congressman Chet Edwards, who is running for District 17 Congress, on Wednesday, August 4.

"The AGFUND is the political action arm of the Texas Farm Bureau," Gene Hall, director of public relations with the Texas Farm Bureau, said. "It's a very grass roots directed political fund."

AGFUND is non-partisan and supports candidates for office based solely on qualifications and positions on agriculture and Farm Bureau policy, said McLennan County Farm Bureau President, Jimmy Westerfeld.

"Chet Edwards has supported the farm and ranch families of this district on a wide range of agricultural issues," Westerfeld said. "We are especially pleased that Congressman Edwards has been a staunch defender of private property rights."

Edwards, a Democrat, is running against Republican, Arlene Wohlgemuth for Congress.

Before allowing the U.S. Representative to take over the podium, Westerfeld added, "Perhaps most important of all, Chet Edwards has always had an open door and an open mind. He has never failed to meet with farmers and ranchers when requested and carefully evaluates the issues that are important to us."

Edwards proudly approached the stand, saying he believes the support of the AGFUND is the most sought after political endorsement in Texas' rural districts.

"Truly the farm bureau has made a difference in the lives of central Texas farmers and ranchers. I can say that without question," Edwards said. "Twenty-three thousand members are in the farm bureau, in our district, and they made the endorsement decision based on my record of fighting for rural Central Texas families. I am proud to be standing here and I am deeply grateful for the endorsement.