(Washington, D.C.) — Today, U.S. Sen. David Vitter and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns toured the National Finance Center, a Department of Agriculture facility, in New Orleans. Vitter took this opportunity to express his concerns about the administration’s proposed budget cuts to agriculture.

“I’m glad Agriculture Secretary Johanns chose to come to Louisiana during his first couple of weeks on the job. I appreciate him taking the time to tour this facility, and discuss the high-tech jobs that it creates,” said Vitter. “In addition, I used this opportunity to express some of my concerns about the Administration’s proposed agriculture budget. While I applaud the attempt to tighten fiscal discipline, I have grave concerns about agriculture taking such a hit in this budget,” Vitter said.

The proposed budget reduces government support for farmers by $5.7 billion over the next decade, which would affect a wide range of farmers, including cotton, rice and soybean farmers. The next step for the annual budget is consideration by Congress, which will take most of the year to complete.

“Today we had a positive discussion, which is a good first step in an open dialogue about the budget. I look forward to working with the Secretary to find a way to benefit Louisiana farmers,” Vitter said.