A strong U.S. economy is critical to a strong U.S. farm economy. Low interest rates mean more farmers can expand operations, and make equipment purchases and other investments. A balanced budget also means more Americans have an easier time buying a home, starting a business or sending a child to college. Most of us agree that this is worth cinching up the federal belt a few notches. If we want to drive the deficit to zero, shore up social security, and make possible what was considered impossible just a few years ago, then each of us must do our part.
Government can no longer afford to be all things to all people.
In exchange, government is getting smaller and costing less. USDA is no exception. We are doing our part. What we do, we must do well because what we still do here at the people's department' is protect and improve the American quality of life. In that vein, USDA's 1999 budget is chock full of the right stuff.