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
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