The Fertilizer Institute (TFI), the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA), and other trade groups representing industry and agriculture on Jan. 20 issued statements congratulating President Joe Biden on his inauguration and expressing optimism about working with the new administration.
“President Biden’s long history of public service in Washington, D.C., his extensive list of accomplishments, and his long-standing relationships across party lines provide us with optimism as we work together to address the many challenges faced by the American people and our communities, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, environmental stewardship, the safety and security of our workforce and communities, energy, fair and free trade, infrastructure, and innovation,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch.
“We look forward to working with the administration on issues critical to ag retailers, their farmer customers, and communities,” said ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. “The Biden transition team worked diligently to be inclusive of ag retailers from day one, and for that we are grateful. We appreciate the engagement we have already had with the leadership of the incoming administration and look forward to continuing those relationships for a bright future for American agriculture.”
American Chemistry Council (ACC) President and CEO Chris Jahn said the ACC welcomed the inauguration of President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris “as the culmination of a fair, transparent, and secure democratic election.” Jahn, who previously served as TFI President and CEO, said the U.S. chemical and plastics industry pledges to work with “Democrats, Republicans, NGOs, and Americans of all political stripes” to find common ground on pressing global challenges such as climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The next four years promise to be transformative, and U.S. chemical and plastic resin manufacturers intend to lead by example,” Jahn said. “Instead of disagreement and discord, ACC and its members look forward to forging new relations that enable our industry to continue to innovate and create American jobs. Where there has been inequality, we intend to double down on our values to help support policies, programs, and people that enable the continued contributions of chemistry to our society through diversity, inclusiveness and respect.”
The ACC issued a separate statement praising Biden’s executive decision during his first day in office to rejoin the Paris Climate Agreement. “In order for the opportunities afforded by the Paris Agreement to be fully realized, the administration, Congress, and the private sector must work together to develop and implement a national, comprehensive, market-based system to drive emissions reductions,” the organization said.
“Virtually every low-carbon electricity, energy efficiency, and transportation technology is made possible by the chemical industry, including solar panels, wind turbines, electric and high-efficiency vehicles, energy-efficient building products, low-emissions fuels, and advanced batteries,” ACC continued. “Climate change is a global challenge that requires long-term commitment and action by every segment of society. ACC members stand ready to play a constructive role in the development of climate solutions that will support a healthy, thriving nation for generations to come.”
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) also offered its congratulations, and sent a letter to Biden outlining key opportunities for corn growers and agriculture over the next four years, including efforts to transition the nation’s fuel supply to a higher-octane, low carbon fuel.
“NCGA and corn growers across the country are looking forward to being a part of efforts to address climate change, one of the Biden-Harris Administration’s top policy priorities,” said NCGA President John Linder. “Higher-octane fuels, most effectively achieved by blending more low carbon ethanol, would unlock increased gains in vehicle efficiency, equating to more miles per gallon, and an even further reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.”
NCGA said expanding overseas markets for U.S. corn and corn products is also a top priority. “We are confident your vast experience in the foreign policy arena will serve the U.S. well in our ability to expand upon our global competitiveness,” the organization said.