My experience in politics is limited—and my experience with politics in Washington, D.C., was nonexistent. But, thanks to Michigan Farm Bureau, I had the opportunity to attend the Washington Legislative Seminar alongside farmers from across Michigan and across the country. What I expected was a learning experience. What I didn’t expect was how personal it would feel.
Walking into the Capitol, visiting the American Farm Bureau offices, and sitting in rooms where decisions are made—it all carried a weight I hadn’t felt before.
One evening, I walked to the White House, stopping along the way at several monuments. Like any visitor, I took in the sights. But what stayed with me wasn’t just the history. I was reminded of who we are as a country, and why we stand up for what we believe in. That same spirit showed up in every conversation I had with fellow farmers—people from all corners of our state, each bringing their own perspective, but grounded in the same purpose.
We talked about why we do what we do. How we protect what we’ve built.
How we make sure this way of life is still there for the next generation.
My kids are 7 and 5. We wonder what their future will look like, whether they’ll drive cars or what college might become. But they already understand things that matter. They know how to work together to press the clutch on a tractor. They know how to lift a bucket, wipe grease from their hands, and explain how a PTO works. And they carry pride into their classrooms because they know they helped grow something real on our farm.
My day job is in technology leadership, but my kids don't know that. What they know is the land. They know the work. They know the pride.
That’s the spirit of our family.
And, that’s why we fight.
Because if we’re not telling our story, someone else will tell it for us.
The Washington Legislative Seminar gave us the opportunity to debate, to disagree, to connect—and ultimately to recognize the shared passion we all have for agriculture and the future it supports.
There is still a lot of work ahead. But I walked away incredibly proud—not just of what I learned, but of what I saw in Michigan Farm Bureau and its members.
The world needs agriculture right now.
If you have the opportunity, you also have the responsibility.
Get involved. Connect with your township. Talk to your local planners. Reach out to your representatives. Engage with Farm Bureau.
Because what we’re protecting isn’t just land.
It’s a way of life.