You know, rural Americans are a special people. Their labor puts food on our table and fuel in our gas tanks. Their service in our military sets a powerful example of leadership, honor and sacrifice. Their spirit of community inspires us all. Tom Vilsack americancommunityfood share on social
Although they are some of the hardest working folks I know, rural Americans earn, on average, $11,000 less than their urban counterparts each year. And they are more likely to live in poverty. Tom Vilsack 000americanaverage Change image and share on social
And sometimes people don't realize that 90 percent of the persistent poverty counties are located in rural America. Tom Vilsack americacountylocate Change image and share on social
This is an exciting time for farmers and ranchers of all types and sizes as agriculture is a bright spot in the American economy. In 2011, agricultural exports hit a record high and producers saw their best incomes in nearly 40 years. Tom Vilsack agriculturalagricultureamerican share on social
There are a lot of farmers and ranchers who are struggling. I get on my knees every day. If I had a rain prayer or a rain dance I could do, I would do it. Tom Vilsack dancedayfarmer Change image and share on social
We know that there are significant health benefits from consuming more fruits and vegetables, and that's an opportunity for us to sort of move away from some of the meals that we've been preparing in the past. Tom Vilsack benefitconsumefruit share on social
Today, President Obama is making smart investments in clean energy - wind, solar, biofuels - as part of an all-of-the-above energy strategy that supports thousands of jobs, not in the Middle East, but in the Midwest. Tom Vilsack biofuelcleaneast share on social
The Obama administration will continue to fight for a comprehensive immigration solution that includes AgJobs and a stable workforce for our farms. Tom Vilsack administrationagjobscomprehensive Change image and share on social
There is more potential for economic growth in rural America than at any time in decades. Tom Vilsack americadecadeeconomic Change image and share on social
Local and regional food systems are about opportunity. Tom Vilsack foodlocalopportunity Change image and share on social
