B I O F U E L S
Keeping
Rural
America
Strong
C H A M P I O N
Editor’s note: In each issue of American Ethanol
magazine, we will feature a Biofuels Champion.
These are individuals or organizations who
understand the importance of biofuels to
our economy and environment, and are
committed to supporting our industry. Our
first Biofuels Champion is Iowa Senator Joni
Ernst. We wanted to know more about how her
agricultural background informs her legislative
service and her thoughts on the American
biofuels industry. Here is what she had to say
about the key role biofuels play in the rural
economy and the security of our country.
AE: How does your background in
agriculture inform not only your decisions
related to that industry but also your
perspective as a legislator?
Ernst: Growing up walking beans and feeding
hogs on our family farm in southwest Iowa,
I saw firsthand the critical role agriculture plays
in Iowa and across the globe. Our farmers
ensure that folks in the U.S. and around the
world have access to a safe and affordable food
supply. In fact, Iowans are leading producers
of many things, including corn, soybeans, and
renewable fuels.
Coming from an agricultural background has
given me insight into our rural communities,
which are the backbone of our nation. It helps to
give me perspective on where the true strength
of our nation lies—in our ability to feed and fuel
ourselves. In the United States Senate, I am
proud to be a member of the Committee on
Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. As a member
of this committee, I have an opportunity to work
with my colleagues to make sure those in the
fields and on ranches can continue to do what
they do best—produce world-class goods that
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AMERICAN ETHANOL THE MAGAZINE