Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow of Michigan announced she won’t be running for reelection in 2024.
“Inspired by a new generation of leaders, I’ve decided to pass the torch in the U.S. Senate,” Stabenow says in a statement.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the trust the people of Michigan have placed in me.”
The four-term senator says a big part of her decision was stepping aside to make room for new voices.
Between now and 2024, Stabenow says she’ll concentrate on passing a new farm bill before she retires. “The farm bill determines our nation’s food and agriculture policies,” she says.
“It’s also a key to protecting our land and water and creating jobs in rural and urban communities.” Stabenow has played a big role in several farm bills. Her decision will increase pressure to pass a new farm bill while she’s in office rather than extending the current legislation.