How does AGGPAC designate Friends of Agriculture?

The Friend of Agriculture designation recognizes Ohio General Assembly and U.S. Congressional candidates on their views on issues of importance to agriculture and their alignment with Farm Bureau policy. In open seat screenings where the incumbent is not seeking re-election, both candidates, one candidate, or neither candidates in a race can receive this designation after being screened by a committee of Farm Bureau members from counties within that district. A different process if used to evaluate Ohio Supreme Court candidates (see below).

How are incumbents evaluated?

Incumbents are evaluated based on their voting record, an issue survey, and county Farm Bureau member input on their level of engagement. For incumbents to be considered for the designation, they must have a satisfactory voting record on Ohio Farm Bureau Key Votes. The other two components of their evaluation include satisfactory completion of Ohio Farm Bureau’s incumbent survey and a positive review by county Farm Bureaus. Since incumbents have a voting record and performance history, AGGPAC does not interview candidates who are challenging an incumbent. 

How are open seat races handled?

County Farm Bureaus hold local screenings for Ohio General Assembly and Congressional candidates to determine Friends of Agriculture. After a group of members from within the district interview both candidates and discuss priority issues focused on agriculture-specific policy, the screening committee can recommend one candidate, both candidates, or neither candidate.