Iowa Farmers Union Convention Highlights Senator Tom Harkin’s Call to Strengthen Rural America

Iowa Farmers Union members from across the state gathered on Dec. 5–6 at the Quality Inn & Conference Center in Ames for the 110th Annual State Convention. This year’s theme, “Empowering Farmers to Weather the Chaos,” underscored the challenges facing family farmers and the urgent need for fair, stable agricultural policy.

A highlight of the convention was a special address by former U.S. Senator Tom Harkin, who sounded the alarm about the threats facing American democracy, including the perilous state of the Constitution, personal freedoms, and civil discourse. Harkin encouraged Iowa farmers to remain engaged, organized, and active in supporting their communities and the policies that sustain family farming. He also reflected on the legacy of his agricultural work in Congress and emphasized the continuing importance of grassroots advocacy for rural communities.

A recording of Senator Harkin’s remarks can be found here.

“Senator Harkin reminded us that family farmers have always been a stabilizing force in chaotic times. His call to stay organized and stay hopeful could not be more timely for Iowa agriculture,” said IFU President Aaron Lehman.

The convention opened with the Iowa Local Food Summit, which brought together farmers, state agencies, food system leaders, and legislators to discuss strengthening Iowa’s local food infrastructure and expanding opportunities for small- and mid-sized farms. Later that day, IFU members gathered for a Candidate Forum and Reception, where they heard directly from candidates in competitive 2026 congressional and U.S. Senate races. During the reception, Clear Lake farmer and former IFU president Chris Petersen received the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Al Womble, State Political Director of the Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, addressed the membership.