How the Candidates Stack Up

With a little over a month left before the elections, farm groups have put together information to help farmers make an educated decision this November. Several groups have laid out side-by-side comparisons of President George Bush and Democratic nominee Sen. John Kerry.

National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) have developed a Presidential Comparison Web site that explains how the two major presidential candidates view issues important to corn growers.

"By having this Web site available to our members, they can see where each candidate stands on NCGA's key issues and decide for themselves whose platform is better for rural America," says NCGA Vice President of Public Policy Jon Doggett. "As always, every vote counts, and the issues at play in this election will likely affect farming families and rural communities."

Both campaigns are paying particular attention to the agriculture sector, Doggett adds, and many Corn Belt states are considered "Battleground States." Doggett says, "The candidates are visiting rural America more than ever this election season and we'll continue to see high levels of activity in these areas right up until the elections. This election will likely hinge on the rural vote. We have to take full advantage of the fact that the candidates are listening to our issues."

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) recommended to its political action committee (PAC) to support the presidency of Bush. They also have a Fact Sheet outlining key reasons why President Bush has been a friend to the cattle industry.

On NCBA's comparison chart view the different points of views for how to handle BSE, private property rights, tax reform and environment stances for each candidate.

As the election nears, check back to the site for more information from commodity groups and associations with further comparisons as the candidates continue to stump in your backyard.

October 4 is the deadline to register to vote. Exercise your right to participate in this year's election. For more information about registering, click HERE.