On stage from L-R: Becerra, Bianco, Hilton, Mahan, Porter and Villaraigosa
Ag Community Hosts Gubernatorial Forum in Fresno
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Ag Council co-hosted a successful gubernatorial forum at Fresno State on April 1 along with Western Growers, California Farm Bureau, and multiple other agricultural organizations. The event was held in collaboration with the Maddy Institute in Fresno and provided a critical platform to elevate key issues.
Gubernatorial candidates Xavier Becerra, Chad Bianco, Steve Hilton, Matt Mahan, Katie Porter, and Antonio Villaraigosa participated in the 90-minute forum focused on affordability in the Central Valley. Over 500 people attended the event.
“It is important for gubernatorial candidates to spend time in the Valley and discuss how they would address the issues our ag community faces, if elected. The region deserves attention along with thoughtful solutions from those seeking to serve as governor, and we appreciate each of the candidates who participated,” Ag Council President Emily Rooney said.
The policy issues covered during the forum included water, energy, and housing, as well as the cost of living in the Golden State. Much of the conversation centered on regulatory burdens faced by the ag community and all candidates agreed that California is overregulated.
Special appreciation goes to former Assembly Minority Leader Kristin Olsen-Cate and Fresno County Supervisor Buddy Mendes who moderated the forum.
Did you miss the forum? Click HERE to watch the video on the Maddy Institute’s YouTube page (forum conversation begins after the six-minute mark).