Washington, D.C. (KROC-AM News) - The Congressman representing Rochester has been given a seat on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee.

Republican Jim Hagedorn’s office announced the key committee assignment today.

“I will use my role on the Agriculture Committee to promote farming and our rural economy. I will work to reduce barriers and open up markets and expand trade opportunities to promote some of the world’s finest agriculture products, grown right in our great state of Minnesota.”

“Farmers expect us to act to remove excessive regulations and unneeded government intrusion into their businesses and livelihoods. We must protect farmers and agri-businesses from extremist environmental regulations. Instead, I support U.S. energy independence to place downward pressure on the cost of farming, processing, transportation, and other services.”

Hagedorn was elected last fall to represent Minnesota’s First Congressional District and sworn into the office earlier this month.

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