Montana Congressman Greg Gianforte was presented with a national Friend of Farm Bureau Award October 17 during a visit to the Arntzen Angus Ranch in Hilger, Montana. 

The American Farm Bureau Federation’s Friend of Farm Bureau is given each Congress to individuals who have supported Farm Bureau policy, as shown by their voting records, were nominated by their respective state Farm Bureau and were approved by the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors. The voting records of the 115th Congress are based on priority issues selected by the AFBF board. 

“The Farm Bureau is an important voice for farmers in Montana and throughout the country, and I’m honored to receive the Friend of Farm Bureau award,” said Congressman Gianforte. “In Congress, I will continue serving as a strong voice for Montana’s farmers – working to roll back and repeal burdensome regulations they face, passing a Farm Bill that works for them, and advocating fair trade deals that benefit them so they can get their products to foreign markets.” 

“Greg Gianforte has always realized the importance of agriculture and in particular, the Farm Bureau organization,” noted Montana Farm Bureau President Hans McPherson. “Ever since he ran for Congress, Representative Gianforte frequently consulted us on ag issues because he recognized us as the leading agricultural association in Montana. As the award indicates, he has voted with Farm Bureau policy the majority of the time. He has always been very helpful and responded quickly to what we need in Washington, D.C. We were proud to nominate him to the AFBF board for this prestigious award.”  

MFBF’s Director of National Affairs Nicole Rolf has worked extensively with Rep Gianforte and his staff. She added, “The 115th Congress took on many issues important to agriculture. The farmer and rancher members of the Montana Farm Bureau Federation especially appreciate Congressman Gianforte’s strong support of the Farm Bill, comprehensive Tax Reform, and other matters. We thank him for his dedication to the farmers and ranchers of this state and his willingness to listen to our concerns.” 

Montana Senator Steve Daines also received the Friend of Farm Bureau Award and will be presented with his plaque later this year. The first recipients of the “Friend of Farm Bureau” awards were announced in September 1996. The awards have been presented every other September thereafter near the end of subsequent congresses.