Washington, D.C. — Rural America is a remarkably diverse and energetic landscape, home to creative and innovative leaders and communities. Too often, rural communities have been an afterthought in national policy—enabling an economy and policy environment that is extractive of the energies and value rural communities produce for the nation.
This month, Congress faces a deadline for reauthorizing the Farm Bill—must-pass legislation that supports farmers and ranchers, rural development, and nutrition programs. However, will lawmakers take the opportunity to reimagine rural policy down to its roots?
Please join the Center for American Progress and Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT) for a conversation on the challenges facing rural America and what it will take to build an agenda that truly delivers for rural people and places. Following a conversation between Sen. Welch and CAP’s Neera Tanden, a panel of rural experts will dig into where the gaps are—and where the possibilities lie—for reducing the cost of living, creating jobs, and supporting farms of all sizes.
WHO:
Distinguished Guest:
Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT), Ranking Member of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit
Moderators:
Neera Tanden, CEO and President, Center for American Progress
Anne Knapke, Senior Fellow for Economic Policy, Center for American Progress
Panelists:
Gbenga Ajilore, Chief Economist, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Ben Doyle, President, Preservation Trust of Vermont
Matt Russell, Executive Director, Iowa Farmers Union
WHEN:
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. ET
WHERE:
Center for American Progress
1333 H St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20005
RSVP:
To join in person or online, please RSVP here.
For more information or to speak to an expert, contact Christian Unkenholz at [email protected].