The politically incestuous relationship between business and government is now deeply ingrained in our social fabric. Virtually every kind of enterprise has vested interest in government benefits bestowed by the political class in Washington, D.C. Agricultural businesses have leaned heavily on the federal dole since the 1930s; proliferating and expanding with every administration.
News from Pender County illustrates how USDA agents—with their presence in all 3000 counties in America—continue to solicit local agricultural producers to join forces in ferreting out the public’s money for staff, offices, programs and cash handouts. All “stakeholders” benefit. Part of the scheme involves “electing” agricultural producers to USDA Farm Service Agency “(FSA) county committees.”
County officials could opt out of this voluntary relationship. And committee members are presumably independent and make their own decisions, but the enticement of no-cost-to-them manpower and money is irresistible—and let’s not forgot that local prestige and power for a chosen few goes with the perks.
Here’s the propaganda pitch reported in the Wilmington StarNews under “NEWS & NOTES”: (link)
“The election of agricultural producers to FSA county committees is important to all farmers and ranchers. It is crucial that every producer participate in this election because FSA county committees are a link between the agricultural community and the U. S. Department of Agriculture. County committee members provide local input on commodity price support programs, conservation programs, incentive, indemnity and disaster programs, emergency programs and payment eligibility.”
So come on down and get what’s coming to you—compliments of the U. S. taxpayers.
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