WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Democratic Control Brings Changes to Agriculture Committees
Democratic control of both chambers of Congress is set to bring significant shifts in leadership and membership to the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, potentially reshaping the congressional farm-policy agenda for 2027.
House Agriculture Committee
The leadership change will be immediate and substantial. The current Ranking Member, Angie Craig, is leaving Congress, sparking a Democratic race for the top spot. Jim Costa of California and Shontel Brown of Ohio are vying for the position, with the winner set to become the new chairman under Democratic control.
On the Republican side, Glenn "GT" Thompson, the current chairman, is seeking a waiver to extend his leadership beyond the party's six-year limit. Austin Scott of Georgia is also contending for the top GOP position.
Senate Agriculture Committee
The Senate Agriculture Committee will also welcome new leadership. Amy Klobuchar, the current Ranking Member, won the Minnesota governor's race and will be leaving the Senate. With Democrats in control, Michael Bennet of Colorado is considered a strong contender for chairman based on his committee seniority. John Boozman of Arkansas is poised to become the top Republican on the panel.
Significant Turnover
The turnover extends beyond leadership. At least 12 members of the current House Agriculture Committee will not be returning. Among them are:
- Zach Nunn (IA)
- Derrick Van Orden (WI)
- Monica De La Cruz (TX)
- Rob Bresnahan (PA)
- Don Bacon, Dan Newhouse, Randy Feenstra, Dusty Johnson, Barry Moore, John Rose, and Shri Thanedar (all retiring or losing reelection)
The Senate Agriculture Committee will also see at least seven departures:
- Joni Ernst, Mitch McConnell, Tommy Tuberville (Republicans leaving)
- Dick Durbin and Tina Smith (Democrats)
- Roger Marshall (KS, losing reelection)
- Klobuchar's victory in Minnesota adds another significant departure.
This turnover occurs while Congress still faces critical tasks, including completing farm-bill work and debating crop insurance, nutrition, conservation, commodity programs, agricultural trade, livestock policy, and rural development. The new committees will approach these discussions with fresh faces and greater Democratic control, potentially shifting priorities and committee dynamics.