The Partnership for a New American Economyand the American Farm Bureau Federation today released a new ad calling on Congress to pass immigration reform now. The ad features Bernie Thiel, a Texas farmer who has had to destroy some of his own crops for two years in a row because he has been unable to find the workers he needs to harvest.
The ad, which premiered today in Washington, D.C., taxis and airports, will play in the following locations:
- Washington, D.C., taxis
- Reagan National and Dulles International airports
- Movie theatres in 16 key congressional districts
- Rodeos in Idaho and Louisiana
- State Fairs
“A farmer should never have to destroy a crop due to the lack of an adequate labor force,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman. “If that situation doesn’t illustrate the clear need for agricultural labor reform, I’m not sure what will. Ultimately, as a nation we will decide whether we import our labor or import our food. While our nation’s current political climate makes comprehensive reform a challenge, we are determined that ensuring an adequate farm workforce and securing our borders are compatible goals that are worthy of continued pursuit.”
Plows and Politics 