Congressman Frank Lucas (R-OK) has been selected to chair the House Agriculture Committee in the 112th Congress.

“It is an honor to continue in this leadership role of the Agriculture Committee where I have served since I was first elected to Congress,” Lucas said. “As a lifelong farmer from a diverse, agricultural state, I have lived the real world challenges farmers and ranchers face across the country. I will continue to be a strong voice for production agriculture and rural America.”

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Colin Woodall says they believe Rep. Lucas will be a good chairman to represent the interests of rural America in general and beef producers in particular. “Under the leadership of Rep. Lucas, we expect the Environmental Protection Agency, USDA’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration and other departments within this administration to be held accountable for regulations that will stymie the success of innovative and creative cattle producers who are the very best stewards of the land,” Colin said in a statement from NCBA. “Rep. Lucas understands the importance of agriculture. He is aware of the unique challenges facing agriculture and is ready to pursue opportunities for the entire industry.”