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Adam Sharp, Ohio Farm Bureau

Fall is always one of my favorite times on the farm.

Harvest is in full swing, the Ohio State Buckeyes are back on the field and families begin gathering around the table for the holidays. This year will be even more special as we celebrate Ohio Grows: Food & Farms month this October as part of America’s 250th anniversary.

For two and a half centuries, farm families have helped shape our nation by producing the food, renewable fuel and fiber that sustain each and every one of us. Along the way, they’ve helped build strong communities, fuel our economy and care for our land and natural resources. You simply can’t tell the story of America without agriculture and our rural communities.

As we celebrate our nation’s first 250 years, it’s a reminder that the USA’s success is driven by those who roll up their sleeves, serve their communities and leave things better than they found them.

This fall, Ohioans have both the opportunity and civic responsibility to help write the next chapter of our state’s story at the ballot box. In 2026, we will elect a new governor, four other statewide executive officers, a U.S. senator, 15 U.S. representatives, two Ohio Supreme Court justices, as well as half of the Ohio Senate and all 99 Ohio House representatives. All of these elections decide who shapes policies that affect agriculture and our rural communities, so regardless of where you live or what issues matter most to you, taking time to learn about the candidates and casting an informed vote matters.

To help, our staff and dedicated volunteers have prepared the Ohio Farm Bureau-AGGPAC Election Guide. Through our grassroots open seat screening and incumbent review process, members from across the state met face to face with candidates, discussed the issues important to agriculture and rural Ohio and identified those who earned the Friend of Agriculture designation. I encourage you to spend a few minutes with this guide to learn more about the candidates who will appear on your ballot this November.

Ohio Farm Bureau has always believed that the strength of our organization comes from engaged members. Whether you’re advocating for agriculture, serving your community or simply taking time to vote, your voice and dedication matters. The next 250 years of our country, Ohio agriculture and our rural communities will be shaped by those who show up.

Adam Sharp
Executive Vice President

My first recommendation in your journey is to start out with a local farming friend or mentor along with joining an organization like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Greg McGlinch's avatar
Greg McGlinch

Darke County Farm Bureau

We’re just so thankful for the Farm Bureau and the foundation for helping put this together. And of course, the Boyert family for the vision they had with this grant. It’s jumping us forward 10 years. It’s unbelievable.
Nathan and Jill Parriman's avatar
Nathan and Jill Parriman

Clermont County Farm Bureau

I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
Gretchan Francis's avatar
Gretchan Francis

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

It wasn’t until I joined the Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau that I truly saw how my passion could translate into leadership, advocacy and a career.
Wyatt Morrow's avatar
Wyatt Morrow

Clinton County Farm Bureau

The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Matt Aultman's avatar
Matt Aultman

Darke County Farm Bureau

Through the Select Partner program, we became educated in farm insurance and weren't just selling policies. It became more and more clear why farmers need an advocate like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Chad Ruhl's avatar
Chad Ruhl

Farm manager, CSI Insurance

So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
Mary Smallsreed's avatar
Mary Smallsreed

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

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