MAWG: 7th District Congressional Candidates

1. What do you think are priorities for the 1995 Farm Bill, and if elected, how do you plan to become involved in its drafting?

   OMANN:

   My priorities for the 1995 Farm Bill are: A market-based mechanism for allocating resources and production; A farm income safety net within the free market; Incentives for sustainable use of resources; Trade policies that will expand markets abroad. My involvement in drafting the 1995 Farm Bill will be substantial as I have been promised a seat on the Agriculture Committee by Rep. Newt Gingrich, chairman of the Republican Committee on Committees.

   PETERSON:

   Reauthorization of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is my number one priority as the 1995 Farm Bill debate approaches. CRP has been one of the most successful conservation programs in USDA history. Benefits have included: reduced soil erosion, enhanced wetlands, improved water quality, expanded wildlife populations, and strengthened farm income. I have introduced a bill to extend CRP for ten years and look forward to securing its passage. My seniority on the Agriculture Committee puts me in line for a subcommittee chair in the 104th Congress. This experience in working with committee members will be invaluable as I work for sound agricultural policies. Ensuring maximized producer income with existing resources will be essential when debating all farm programs for the 1995 Farm Bill.

2. What is your position on a national health-care plan, particularly on how rural America might be affected?

   OMANN:

   I support the Dole Plan, offered by Senate Republican Leader Robert Dole. Provisions that would particularly affect rural America are:

   • Require insurers to renew policies and prohibit pre-existing condition limitations.
   • Block states from mandating insurers to include costly benefits buyers do not want.
   • Reform anti-trust laws to make it easier for providers to do business.
   • Encourage the creation of purchasing groups, including non-employer associations, to bargain for rates.
   • Provide a full tax deduction for Americans who purchase insurance outside their place of employment.
   • Authorize medical savings accounts.

   PETERSON:

   I support 100% tax deductibility of health care benefits. True health care reform does not need increased bureaucracy, taxes, or employer mandates. In fact, I supported the Bipartisan Health Care Reform Act during the 103rd Congress; realistically the only chance of passing a reform bill.

   This bill would make health insurance more accessible and affordable through basic insurance and malpractice reforms. Rural America is not exempt in need for health care reform. I will continue to inform other members of Congress about the unique struggles that face rural America.

3. Explain your views on the U.S. Federal budget for agriculture. Are there areas where budget reductions or spending increases are needed?

   OMANN:

   I am advocating a flexible freeze on federal spending for the next five years in order to eliminate the budget deficit. While there is room for adjustments within this proposal, I generally believe the federal budget for agriculture should remain about where it is until the deficit is eliminated.

   PETERSON:

   Agriculture has done its part. As Congress attempts to control the immense budget problems it faces, many programs are targeted for spending reductions. All too often, agriculture funding is fingered to take cuts. I have worked hard to ensure that essential farm programs are not stripped away.

   Even as I strive to mainstream a strong agriculture program, I also recognize budget realities. There are limited resources that need to be used wisely. Programs that are efficient and effective should be prioritized. The Agriculture Committee understands fiscal responsibility and has taken steps to streamline spending. Agriculture has done its part to alleviate budget concerns. I will continue to act responsibly while protecting and promoting vital farm interests.

4. Will the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade be harmful or beneficial to the U.S. ag sector? Would you vote for or against the passage of GATT?

   OMANN:

   I believe the GATT treaty would be an overall benefit for American agriculture and I would vote for it.

   PETERSON:

   I am in favor of free trade when there is fair competition and a level playing field. I believe strongly that the U.S. can compete well in the world market. However, the GATT that the Administration presented to Congress fails many of our industries, specifically, dairy.

   Without changes to the current implementing legislation, GATT will force dairy producers into a world market with heavily subsidized competitors and restricted market access. For instance, the European Union will be allowed to subsidize dairy products representing an outrageous 12% of its production. Canada will be allowed 6%. Conversely, the U.S. will be restricted to no more than 1%. This is not free trade.

   I cannot support a trade agreement that ignores our dairy producers. I have worked hard as a member of the bipartisan Congressional Dairy Task Force on GATT to negotiate fair provisions for dairy. The Administration has failed to insert the task force recommendations. Therefore, I opposed the rule to bring GATT to a vote.

5. Why should farm voters select you over your opponent?

   OMANN:

   I have been directly involved in farming all my life. I have first-hand knowledge of the problems and difficulties which face farmers in the 7th District. As a state legislator, I was a leader on the Agriculture Committee of the Minnesota House and deeply involved in the development of farm policy. As Assistant Commissioner of Agriculture for the state of Minnesota, I was directly involved in implementing those policies. My opponent has no comparable experience.

   PETERSON:

   The 1995 Farm Bill is the most important piece of legislation facing the agriculture community. The Farm Bill will set the course of ag policy for the next five years. I believe 7th District farm voters want experience. And they want results. My seniority on the Agriculture Committee has given me experience. I have used my position to push for responsible agriculture policy that keeps the farmer in mind.

   We do not need a rookie entering Congress with the impending Farm Bill. This legislation is too important for Minnesota farmers to place 7th District concerns in the hand of someone without experience or results.

   I have the experience, the proven results, and the drive to work for the farm voters of the 7th District.