Legislative Action
SDCGA CORNPAC
“Promoting the Interests of Corn Growers Through the Electoral Process”
Click here for the SDCGA CORNPAC brochure and contribution form!
What is the SDCGA CORNPAC?
It is a Political Action Committee for the South Dakota Corn Growers Association that supports candidates for statewide elective office. The CORNPAC seeks to promote the economic and social well being of South Dakota corn producers and agricultural related interests by providing an opportunity for individuals interested in the future of the corn industry to contribute to the support of worthy candidates for statewide office. By contributing to a PAC, agricultural supporters can play a role in electing to state offices candidates who are willing to commit their full support to our needs and values of corn producers.
What issues are important to CORNPAC?
There are a lot of issues that are important to agricultural producers. Ethanol, private property rights, zoning regulations, wetlands reform, biotechnology, transportation, value-added agriculture and livestock development are all important issues that face producers.
Why Does CORN PAC Need Me?
Agricultural issues that affect one producer, affect all. PACs are part of our political system and everyone must share the load. Election campaigns are increasingly expensive; legislators that support agriculture need money to get elected. They rely on contributions to get their message across when running for office. A contribution from a PAC can show respect for a candidate and indicate interest in the process.
It is important to elect state-wide leaders who are willing to listen objectively to our concerns, understand them and act accordingly.
How Much Should I Give?
That’s totally up to you. Contributions levels range from $50, $250, $500 or $1,000. It is a personal decision and you should contribute what you are comfortable with. Please remember that we can only accept contributions from individuals. PACs are prohibited from accepting contributions from corporations or associations. Contributions can be sent to the following address:
CORNPAC
3801 South Western Avenue, Suite 100
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
When Is the Best Time to Give?
Now! Contributions are invited and accepted throughout the year.
Potential Candidates
Candidates for the South Dakota State Legislature and state Constitutional Offices who are supportive in promoting the interests of corn growers are encouraged to contact the CORNPAC for additional information about CORNPAC support.
Generally speaking, in determining how funds shall be distributed to a particular candidate, CORNPAC will consider a rating system that includes, but is not limited to the following factors:
- The integrity and character of the candidate without regard to party affiliation;
- Is a member of the South Dakota Corn Growers Association;
- The candidate’s position and/or voting record on issues involving agriculture policy;
- The completion of a candidates questionnaire for incumbents and non-incumbents relating to agricultural policy issues
- Whether the candidate holds a leadership or policy shaping position in the respective party, legislative committee; and
- Any other criteria developed by the committee