The Senate passed the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 today by an overwhelming vote of 81-15. The bill now moves to the White House where President Bush is expected to veto it. Following the passage of this important measure, Senator Harkin released the following statement:

“Senate passage of the farm bill conference report on a strong, bipartisan basis demonstrates support for core farm bill initiatives – conservation, energy, nutrition and rural development – while continuing and strengthening farm income protection. This bill benefits every American, from our smallest towns to our biggest cities, urban and rural residents, farmers and non-farmers,” said Chairman Harkin.

“Today, I urge the President to look at this farm bill with fresh eyes and an objective mind. To date, he has focused on a handful of elements in this vast bill that he disagrees with. I urge him to look at the bill as a whole, and to see the many critical investments and reforms in this bill that have won support from both parties, from every region of the country, and from rural and urban members of Congress alike. If he does, I am confident he will conclude that this is a good bill that he can and should sign.”

Show your support for Senator Harkin by clicking here to urge Congress to override President Bush’s expected veto.