Congressman Jason Smith (R-Salem) visited the Salem Livestock Auction last week and spoke to local farmers on one of the auction’s busiest nights of the year. This month, Smith is meeting with family farmers and industry professionals involved in all aspects of southern Missouri’s diverse agriculture.
The Salem Livestock auction house, family owned and open since 1987, was packed for a long night of auctions, which began at 6 p.m. and was expected to last until 2 a.m. in the morning. Nearly 1,500 goats and sheep would be sold at auction in addition to hogs, chickens, and rabbits. Local farmers said the drought caused the uptick in sales, as more ranchers are having trouble getting hay and choosing to sell animals to save costs.
In attendance was Smith, who was given a behind-the-scenes look at the auction operation by co-owner Renee Lauderdale and made his way around the auction speaking to local farmers and ranchers. Smith said he holds these agriculture summits to hear farmers’ concerns directly.
“An incredible number of products are made right here in southern Missouri and each farm has unique challenges,” said Smith. “I’m thankful so many people have let me in to their homes and their barns to hear about any grievances they have with the federal government and see what policies they want to change. Agriculture touches everybody, and every policy touches agriculture.
“Businesses have showed me the new investments and training made possible by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, I’ve heard from farmers who have seen healthcare costs skyrocket under Obamacare, and farmers have told me how relieved they are that President Trump is easing back regulations instead of trying to regulate every rain puddle on their land. I have a lot to take with me back to Washington as I fight for our rural way of life.”
