Jimmy Parnell re-elected to head Alabama Farmers Federation President
Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell was elected to a sixth two-year term heading the largest and most powerful Farm advocacy group in the state on Monday. “I thank you for my reelection,” Parnell said to the delegates who re-elected him. “I love y’all and truly enjoy what we’re doing. There is so much positivity going on inside this whole organization. I am so proud of that.” Parnell was re-elected by the four hundred seventy voting delegates from all 67 Alabama counties unanimously during the Federation’s 101st annual meeting in Montgomery. Parnell thanked fellow farmers from all 67 counties for their support and trust. As Federation president, Parnell also leads its affiliated insurance company, Alfa Insurance. This election to a sixth term caps off an incredibly successful year for Parnell, whose FarmPAC group endorsed candidates prevailed in numerous contests both at the primary and general election levels. Notable victories for the association include Katie Britt winning the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate over Congressman Mo Brooks, who had been an enemy of the group for years. Incumbent Gov. Kay Ivey was another high-profile endorsed candidate of FarmPAC. Ivey bested a dozen rivals to coast to re-election. Ivey addressed the group at their convention. “Tonight’s @AlfaFarmers’ 101st annual meeting marks the start of “A New Century for AL Agriculture; Continuing the Legacy.” I’ll always have the backs of our farmers, over the next 4 years & beyond,” Ivey wrote on Twitter. Parnell was recently chosen by Ivey to be one of the honorary co-chairs of her inauguration committee. Parnell succeeded Jerry Newby, who retired as the group’s President ten years ago. Parnell is a fifth-generation Chilton County farmer. Parnell raises cattle and runs a timber business. He was named the logger of the year by the Alabama Forestry Association in 2006. Parnell has a 1985 BA degree from Auburn University. Other leaders were also elected to roles in the association: Rex Vaughn of Madison County and George Jeffcoat of Houston County were both reelected to their sixth two-year terms as North Area and Southeast Area vice presidents. Both raise row crops and cattle. District 2 delegates elected agribusinessman Jeff Peek of Limestone County. Joe Anders of Tuscaloosa County was re-elected to serve a third term representing District 5. Tommy Martin of Hale County was elected to serve District 8. Mark Kaiser of Baldwin County was re-elected to a second term as District 11 director. Ann Whatley and Jonathan Edgar will each serve one-year, ex-officio terms on the state board. They were elected as chairs of the State Women’s Leadership Committee and State Young Farmers Committee. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Alabama Farmers Federation announces more endorsements for House candidates
Thursday, The Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA) announced another round of endorsements for candidates seeking election to the Alabama House of Representatives, Yellowhammer News reported. FarmPAC, ALFA’s political arm, helps determine who to endorse. ALFA is Alabama’s largest farm organization representing agricultural and associate members in all 67 Alabama counties. FarmPAC has endorsed the following candidates. Mark Shirey for House District 100 Brock Colvin for House District 26 Jennifer Fidler for House District 94 Mike Kirkland for House District 23 Shirey is an optometrist in West Mobile. He was president of the Alabama Optometric Association and coordinated with state leadership to write legislation for expanded access to eye care services across Alabama. Colvin is a fifth-generation resident of Marshall County and graduated from the University of Alabama with a double major in finance and economics. “My background in finance gives me the skill I will need to roll up my sleeves and protect our tax dollars,” Colvin stated. “We are taxed enough. I will work for lower taxes and better fiscal responsibility out of state government.” Fidler, a Silverhill native, attended Auburn University, where she obtained a degree in Ornamental Horticulture in 1992. She served on the City of Fairhope Planning Commission from 2007 to 2017. With over 25 years of leadership in local government, Fidler retired in 2018 from public service. Kirkland was born and raised in Jackson county. “I am proud of being a part of our community, and now is the time to do even more,” said Kirkland. “I want to serve the great people of Jackson County and be their voice in Montgomery.” ALFA began announcing state legislative endorsements last October. The primary election will take place on May 24, 2022.
Alabama Farmers Federation announces newest round of legislative endorsements
The Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA) announced its 11th slate of endorsements for candidates seeking election to the Alabama House of Representatives, Yellowhammer News reported. FarmPAC, ALFA’s political arm, helps determine who to endorse. ALFA is Alabama’s largest farm organization representing agricultural and associate members in all 67 Alabama counties. State reps. Phillip Pettus (R-Killen), Jeremy Gray (D-Opelika), and Prince Chestnut (D-Selma) are all incumbents now endorsed by FarmPAC. ALFA also announced its endorsement of Helena City councilwoman Leigh Hulsey for House District 15. “Rep. Pettus is a good public servant for our district,” commented Lauderdale County Farmers Federation president Joe Dickerson. “He cares about the needs of his constituents and represents them well in Montgomery.” Jamie Lazenby, Lee County Farmers Federation president, praised Gray’s work ethic. “Rep. Gray is a leader in the House of Representatives, and we appreciate his service to our district,” advised Lazenby. “He works hard to make sure our needs are represented in Montgomery.” Dallas County Farmers Federation president Jimmy Holliman commented, “Rep. Chestnut is a hard-working representative, and he does a fine job for us at home and in Montgomery representing our needs. We are honored to support his reelection bid.” John DeLoach, president of the Shelby County Farmers Federation, praised Hulsey’s leadership skills, stating, “Leigh Hulsey is a strong business leader who understands the needs of the people of this district. She is also a strong conservative who will work hard representing the needs of our district in the Legislature.”
Katie Britt and Mo Brooks neck and neck in new senate poll; Mike Durant a contender
A new poll is showing a close Senate race between first-time candidate Katie Britt and six-term Congressman Mo Brooks. The poll was conducted by firm McLaughlin & Associates and was commissioned independently from any campaign or entity that supports a candidate in the race. The poll shows Britt leading Brooks on a head-to-head ballot, 38.8% to 36.6%. 24.6% of voters were undecided. When voters were asked who they would vote for amongst four candidates, Brooks came out on top, with 31.4%, while Britt was a close second at 26.2%. Third place went to candidate Mike Durant with 16.6% and Jessica Taylor came in fourth with 4%. 21.8% were undecided when asked about all four candidates. Sean Ross, a spokesman for the Britt campaign, said in an email, “It is clear the Alabamians want fresh blood in the Senate, not a do-nothing, 40-year career politician. Katie continues to work tirelessly every day to directly deliver her positive message to every corner of our state, and her grassroots campaign is paying off. She will be the best candidate to protect Alabama’s Christian conservative values, fight to always put Alabama first, and deliver real results that benefit hardworking Alabama families, not Washington, D.C. special interests. Alabamians can see this, as the numbers reflect.” In the same poll, when asked about President Joe Biden, 90% of voters had an unfavorable opinion of him. 85.8% had a favorable opinion of Donald Trump, and 64.6% had a favorable opinion of retiring Senator Richard Shelby. Britt, who was recently endorsed by Manufacture Alabama, has also been out-fundraising her opponents. In October, she had already raised $3.76 million for her campaign while Brooks had raised $1.79 million. Britt is also endorsed by the Alabama Farmers Federation, the Alabama Retail Association, and the Home Builders Association of Alabama. “Manufacture Alabama seeks to endorse pro-business candidates who will advocate on behalf of manufacturers in Alabama. Katie Britt embodies these qualities and has the tenacity and experience we need representing Alabama in the U.S. Senate,” said George Clark, President of Manufacture Alabama. “Katie has the work ethic, energy, and vision required to ensure Alabama will be a great place to live and work for future generations.” David Hughes, associate professor of political science and public administration at Auburn University at Montgomery believes Brooks and Britt will end up in a runoff. The professor told Al.com, “For my money, this race is headed to a runoff between Britt and Brooks,” Hughes said. “Britt has a name recognition problem, and Brooks has an image problem. We’ll see how that plays out leading down the stretch.”
Alabama Farmers Federation marking 100th anniversary
The Alabama Farmers Federation, a statewide force in agriculture, lobbying, and insurance, will mark its 100th anniversary at its two-day annual meeting, which begins Sunday. Almost 1,200 farmers from each of Alabama’s 67 counties are expected for the meeting, which will include the election of state leaders of the organization and a program honoring the group’s history. The program also will mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of Alfa Insurance Co., which was started by the organization in 1946. The company now provides coverage for more than 1 million farms, homes, cars, and businesses. “The centennial is a time to reflect on the past, remember those who came before us, and rejoice in our accomplishments,” Federation President Jimmy Parnell said in a statement. “It’s also a time for recommitment to our values and visions.” The president of the American Farm Bureau Federation, Zippy Duvall, is among the speakers at the gathering. Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.
Accusations fly between Mo Brooks and ALFA after FarmPAC endorses Katie Britt for U.S. Senate seat
The feud between Rep. Mo Brooks and the Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA) continued yesterday as Mo Brooks went on the defensive regarding the endorsement of Katie Britt by ALFA’s political arm, FarmPAC. Brooks, who is endorsed by former President Donald Trump, claims that ALFA opted not to endorse his campaign because of his positions on border security, amnesty for illegal aliens, and subsidies, Yellowhammer News reported. Brooks made these claims in a series of radio interviews this week. Brooks made an appearance on WVNN’s “The Yaffee Program,” where he accused ALFA of supporting open borders because of the cheap labor that enters the United States as a result. “[O]ne of my opponents was endorsed this week by a special interest group that heavily relies on subsidies, tens of billions of dollars, that is heavily supporting these welfare programs to the tune of another tens of billions of dollars, and, of course, is supporting amnesty and citizenship for illegal aliens,” Brooks said. Brooks told Yellowhammer News, “You have a choice, you can either support struggling American families or you can support the masters of the universe as they seek cheap foreign labor that undercuts the wages of and takes jobs from struggling American families.” “Birds of a feather flock together,” Brooks continued. “Every open borders, cheap foreign labor interest group seems to be supporting Katie Britt – that’s one of ALFA’s top two or three issues,” claiming the organization wishes to “import cheap foreign labor that is heavily subsidized by American taxpayers.” Brooks defended his stance on border security based on his grading with Numbers USA, an anti-illegal immigration organization, which ranked him as having the strongest record on border security out of all 435 of his colleagues. “The special interest groups that want open borders, illegal aliens, cheap foreign labor – they know where I stand on border security, and I stand with struggling American families that are hurt by it,” stated Brooks. Brooks stated on Twitter, “#ALFA denies demanding cheap foreign labor that hurts struggling American families? Really? Ag political powers pushed FARM Workforce Modernization Act thru House in 2019/2021! Mo Brooks=NO! Amnesty & citizenship 4 illegal alien millions IS open borders!” ALFA responded stating that the statements are false and that they are firmly against illegal immigration. The federation stated, “Congressman Brooks’ statements are not only categorically false, but they are also an insult to the hardworking, law-abiding farmers he claims to represent. The Federation’s policy is clear in its support of secure borders and opposition to illegal immigration.” ALFA emphasized that they are advocating for resolving the current border crisis with Mexico. “In fact, on June 3, the Alabama Farmers Federation joined every state farm bureau in the country in sending a letter to the secretaries of Homeland Security, Agriculture, and Interior urging swift action to secure the Southern border. Congressman Brooks’ office was notified of this communication, which makes his recent attacks even more egregious.” Commenting on its decision to endorse Britt, ALFA commented, “[K]atie Britt traveled the state visiting farmers, listening to their concerns, and discussing how to address their needs in Washington. When county Federation leaders gathered in Montgomery last week, they overwhelmingly recommended the endorsement of Katie Britt. Unlike recent statements by Congressman Brooks, Katie Britt has demonstrated respect and appreciation for farmers and rural Alabamians. She earned the confidence of Federation members by being a strong, conservative leader who can get things done in Washington.”
Katie Britt launches new campaign ads touting FarmPAC support
Katie Britt launched new radio and digital ads for her campaign for the U.S. Senate. The radio ad lasts 60 seconds and will be broadcast on a few dozen stations across Alabama. The digital ad lasts 30 seconds. The ad promotes her recent endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation’s political arm FarmPAC. This endorsement is widely viewed as the top grassroots endorsement available in the state of Alabama. Approximately 100 of the federation’s leaders, representing all 67 counties, gathered in Montgomery last Tuesday to hear from candidates and make endorsement recommendations. The Coffee county native has also received endorsements from the Home Builders Association. Senior senator Richard Shelby, who is retiring at the end of his term, has backed Britt as his successor. In the ad, Britt states, “The agriculture industry is the number one industry in the state. I will fight each and every day to make sure that they are in the best place possible. Next to our servicemen and women, there are no greater people in this country than our farmers. I’m inspired by what they do each and every day. That kind of dedication, that is what we need more of in this nation.” Britt released a statement recognizing the importance of the FarmPac endorsement. “I am proud and grateful to have earned the support of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s FarmPAC,” Britt stated. “Alabama’s farmers work tirelessly every day to feed and clothe America, and they are incredible examples of the type of work ethic and patriotism that have made the U.S. the country we know and love. I have travelled our state nonstop the past few months, and we’ve been blown away by the reception to our Alabama First message. It is clear that our state’s farmers not only know I will fight most effectively to defend our Christian conservative values in Washington, but that I will also work to grow opportunity and jobs in every local community in Alabama. Zip code should not define opportunity for Alabamians, and I will always be a champion for our farmers, cattlemen and everyone in the forestry sector as the next U.S. Senator for Alabama.”
FarmPAC announces 2022 political endorsements
FarmPAC, the political arm of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s (ALFA), has announced its endorsements for the upcoming primary elections for 2022. ALFA president and CEO Jimmy Parnell explained that the endorsements came after months of study and consideration of all candidates who went before the federation. Parnell stated, “These candidates have invested time in getting to know our county leaders. They’ve spent time on our farms and attended meetings where they heard about the issues and concerns important to Federation members. At the same time, our county leaders have studied the candidates and decided these individuals have the knowledge, experience, and determination to help lead our state and nation in the right direction.” The following candidates have earned the official endorsement of FarmPAC: • Katie Britt — U.S. Senate• Jerry Carl — U.S. House of Representatives, District 1• Barry Moore — U.S. House of Representatives, District 2• Mike Rogers — U.S. House of Representatives, District 3• Robert Aderholt — U.S. House of Representatives, District 4• Dale Strong — U.S. House of Representatives, District 5• Gary Palmer — U.S. House of Representatives, District 6• Terri Sewell — U.S. House of Representatives, District 7• Kay Ivey — Governor• Will Ainsworth — Lieutenant Governor• Steve Marshall — Attorney General• Wes Allen — Secretary of State• Young Boozer — Treasurer• Rusty Glover — Auditor• Rick Pate — Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries• Greg Cook — Alabama Supreme Court, Place 5• Kelli Wise — Alabama Supreme Court, Place 6• Jeremy Oden — Public Service Commission, Place 1• Chip Beeker — Public Service Commission, Place 2• Tracie West — Alabama State Board of Education, District 2• Yvette Richardson — Alabama State Board of Education, District 4• Cynthia McCarty — Alabama State Board of Education, District 6• Wayne Reynolds — Alabama State Board of Education, District 8 Endorsements approved at Tuesday’s meeting will carry through to the general election. Additionally, the federation stated they would announce their endorsements for state legislature at a later date. FarmPAC Chairman Steve Dunn of Conecuh County said the Federation encourages voters to study the issues and candidates prior to the election. Dunn stated, “It’s important for Alabama voters to be engaged in the electoral process,” said Dunn. “We encourage members to exercise their right to vote, regardless of their political preference, and to consider these FarmPAC endorsements when they go to the polls.”
Farmers Federation endorses Tommy Tuberville in senate race
The Alabama Farmers Federation has endorsed former football coach Tommy Tuberville in the Republican primary in the U.S. Senate race. The group’s political action committee, FarmPAC, on Tuesday announced endorsements for the March 2020 primary elections. The agriculture powerhouse gave its nod to the former Auburn University football coach. Tuberville is part of a crowded Republican primary field competing for the right to challenge incumbent U.S. Sen. Doug Jones in the 2020 general election. Other candidates in the primary race include U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne, Secretary of State John Merrill, former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore, legislator Arnold Mooney and businessman Stanley Adair. FarmPAC said endorsements will carry through to the general election, although it reserves the option to make additional endorsements at a later date. Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.
Jimmy Parnell: Agriculture research funding needed
American agriculture has long been the envy of the world. Thanks to investment in plant and animal breeding, pest management, conservation and automation, U.S. farmers have more than doubled productivity since 1980, while reducing erosion and protecting the environment. If America is to remain a farming superpower, we must strengthen research efforts at our colleges and universities. That’s why Alabama Farmers Federation is calling on Congress to increase support for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Since 1921, the Farmers Federation has worked to build public support for agriculture and forestry. Securing funding for research at Alabama’s land grant universities was an early focus of the organization, and it remains a priority today. Each year, farmers set aside a portion of their harvest revenue to fund education, promotion and research through checkoff programs. Over the years, these voluntary efforts have provided millions of dollars to Auburn University and other research institutions. Likewise, private companies leverage the intelligence and innovation at our universities to develop new products and technologies. Still, public investment is needed to ensure American agriculture and forestry remain globally competitive. Alabama’s Congressional delegation has been supportive of agriculture and forestry research. But in recent years, Brazil and China have outpaced America’s commitment to food and agricultural research. In fact, China is now investing twice as much as the U.S. on potentially groundbreaking research to help farmers feed, clothe and shelter a growing world. NIFA provides a vehicle for coordinating research that can have immediate impact on the agriculture and forestry industries. In one example, over $18 million in competitive grants through NIFA’s Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) program have been awarded to research projects at Auburn University, Alabama A&M University, Tuskegee University and other state institutions. These AFRI grants, under NIFA, have allowed researchers to discover new ways for farmers to prevent infectious diseases that threaten farm animals; developed strategies to ward off pests that could affect soybean production; and helped farmers embrace data to increase profitability. h The Farmers Federation was founded in the decades following the passage of federal laws establishing land grant universities and Cooperative Extension Systems. Our country’s investment in the threefold land grant mission of instruction, research and outreach had a direct impact on the growth of productive and sustainable agricultural and forestry practices. By pairing the scientific curiosity and initiative of researchers with the innovation and hard work of farmers, America became the world leader in agriculture. Our farmers learned to produce more food and fiber with fewer inputs. We developed conservation practices to reduce erosion and create habitat for wildlife. Families were given access to a greater variety of high-quality, nutritious food. And, we were able to export much of this technology to help poor and impoverished people around the world. If the U.S. is to remain the leader in agriculture, we must invest in the future. Alabama’s 40,000 farms generate $70 billion in economic impact and create one in every five jobs. These men and women possess the work ethic, ingenuity and dedication to take agriculture and forestry to the next level. They are investing their own hard-earned money in research. We ask Congress to join us in keeping American agriculture the envy of the world. Jimmy Parnell is the President, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the Alabama Farmers Federation.
Newt Gingrich to speak at Alabama Farmers Federation gathering
Former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich is giving the keynote address at an annual gathering of Alabama farmers. The Alabama Farmers Federation is holding its 97th annual meeting Sunday and Monday in Montgomery. Gingrich will address the group Monday night. The Alabama Farmers Federation says that over 1,200 farmers and guests have registered for the meeting. It is one of the state’s largest gatherings of farmers. The organization on Sunday gave its service to agriculture award to Alabama Agriculture Commissioner John McMillan. Federation President Jimmy Parnell said McMillan set a “new tone for the services that office would provide.” He also praised McMillan’s opposition to property tax increase. Republished with permission from the Associated Press.
Here’s everyone the Alabama Farmers Federation has endorsed for the 2018 midterm elections
Alabama farmers are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to elections. Contributing $5 billion to the state’s agricultural industry, and operating on nearly nine million acres of land within the state; an endorsement from the political arm of the Alabama Farmers Federation, the Farm PAC, can carry major weight in an election cycle. Founded in 1921, the federation has grown to more than 360,000 members; the group focuses its attention on sending a powerful message, to the Statehouse in Montgomery and Capitol Hill in Washington. Here are the candidates who Farm PAC (the political arm of the ALFA) has endorsed who they believe have the best pro-farm record and attitude: U.S. Congress District 1: Bradley Byrne District 2: Martha Roby District 3: Mike Rogers District 4: Robert Aderholt District 5: Mo Brooks District 6: Gary Palmer District 7: Terry Sewell Statewide races Governor: Kay Ivey Lt. Governor: Will Ainsworth Secretary of State: John Merrill State Treasurer: John McMillan Attorney General: Steve Marshall* State Auditor: Jim Zeigler Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries: Rick Pate Public Service Commission Place 1: Jeremy Oden Place 2: Chris “Chip” Beeker Jr. Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice: Tom Parker* Place 2: Tommy Bryan Place 3: Will Sellers* Place 4: Jay Mitchell Court of Civil Appeals Place 1: Christy Edwards Place 2: Chad Hanson* Place 3: Terry A. Moore* Court of Criminal Appeals Place 1: Richard Minor Place 2: Chris McCool Place 3: Bill Cole * = denotes change from the primary endorsements The updated list of State House and Senate endorsements can be found here. The group has also thrown their support behind State Constitutional Amendments 1, 2 and 4.
