With family farms disappearing from rural America Democratic Presidential Candidate Hillary Clinton says she backs initiatives, such as an expansion of local food markets and regional food systems, in order to support rural economies. Clinton says she’s developed a rural economic strategy, alongside Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, which diversifies the country’s economy and agricultural policy.
When Clinton served as a Senator in New York State she says she pursued the same idea: to connect farmers with local and regional markets. She says in order to create viable regional outlets what’s produced in those areas does need to be taken into consideration.
One of the main questions needing to be answered, says Clinton, is how to get food brokers to buy locally rather than casting a broader net. She says it depends on local products and markets, but with proper attention from the Department of Agriculture, in conjunction with state and local efforts, the system could make a difference. Clinton made her remarks during a one-on-one phone interview with Carroll Broadcasting late last week.
