Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG) hosted a member reception during the Farm Progress Show in our partner AGI’s tent, welcoming congressional guests and industry partners for an evening of conversation. The reception brought together Illinois-serving U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly, Nikki Budzinski, Mary Miller, Mike Bost and Eric Sorensen— offering ISG members a unique opportunity to engage directly with policymakers on the issues that matter most to Illinois farmers.

“It’s not every day you get to share your story with members of Congress,” said ISG Chairman Bryan Severs. “Getting this many legislators in a room at the same time isn’t easy. Their presence here shows that they’re listening and care about what’s happening on our farms. It was great opportunity for ISG members.”

“The event served as more than a meet-and-greet; it was an opportunity for our members to talk face-to-face with several elected officials who are making life changing decisions on Illinois farms,” said Andrew Larson, ISG Director of Government Relations. “We set the stage for farmers to be heard, and at the end of the day, that is who Congress will listen to.”

Representatives shared remarks and visited with growers individually, underscoring their commitment to better understand issues Illinois farmers are facing in times of economic challenges.

“I’m proud to join the Illinois Soybean Growers for the annual Farm Progress Show. Central and Southern Illinois is at the forefront of cutting-edge ag innovation – innovation that makes crops more resilient, creates new markets for farmers, shores up the supply chain and so much more,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “As a legislator, I’m focused on bringing home federal resources to support this important work and look forward to continuing to be a partner to our farmers and a champion for the groundbreaking research on display at this year’s Farm Progress Show.”

“I want to thank Illinois Soybean Growers for having me at the Farm Progress Show. This event is one of the best opportunities we have to hear directly from Illinois farmers about the challenges and opportunities they see in agriculture,” said Congressman Bost. “Listening to their experiences helps me be a stronger voice for them in Congress, and I’m grateful for the chance to engage with the farm families who are the backbone of our state.”

“My district spans from Chicago to the south suburbs to over 4,500 farms in rural communities. A vast majority of them are owned by families who are proud to build their farms from the ground up,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “I’m grateful to Illinois Soybean Growers for providing the opportunity to hear about their issues and concerns that I’ll take back with me to D.C. Illinois soybean farmers are critical to our country’s food supply, and they deserve the best resources to stay at the cutting edge of agriculture technology and innovation.”

“Illinois soybean growers are among the most resilient and hard-working farmers in America. Their dedication, innovation and tireless work ethic not only feeds our communities but also strengthens our state and our nation,” said Congresswoman Miller. “I am deeply grateful for their contributions to our economy, our food supply and our future.”

“The Farm Progress Show is an incredible opportunity to connect directly with Illinois farmers and hear firsthand about both the challenges and the innovations shaping agriculture today. Listening to our producers helps guide my work in Washington and on the House Agriculture Committee,” said Congressman Sorensen. “This chance to come together reminds us that the future of American agriculture begins right here in Illinois. I’m grateful to stand alongside the hardworking farming community that keeps our families strong and fed.”

Although the spotlight was on members of Congress, it’s incredibly important to also highlight our appreciation for our dedicated sponsors. AGI opened its venue to host over 150 ISG members onsite at Farm Progress Show in addition to major support from ADM, Farm Credit Illinois and Nutrien Ag Solutions. Their continued support plays a critical role in helping ISG effectively advocate for soybean farmers across the state.

“These partnerships don’t just make these events possible, they make advocacy possible,” said ISG CEO John Lumpe. “We’re incredibly grateful to work with organizations that share our passion for agriculture and our vision for the future of soybean farming in Illinois. Without our partners, we would have a difficult time accomplishing the mountainous task of protecting Illinois soybean farmers. Thank you for your support and dedication!”