Rep. David Valadao, R-Calif.

This week’s Open Mic guest is U.S. Representative David Valadao. As a life-long resident of California’s 21st District, Valadao understands the importance of agriculture to his state and the nation. He shares concern over the mounting challenges drought is posing to farmers and consumers alike. He says state water regulations are a burden for farmers and wants to see D.C. do more to help his state and other Western states suffering from the state’s historic drought conditions. He is pleased shipping reform legislation is gaining traction on Capitol Hill, saying the situation is cutting into agriculture exports in the short term and threatening to reduce global market share in some commodities. Valadao is critical of President Joe Biden’s energy policy and says less regulation would bring greater production for the nation.