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State Sen. Todd Staples announced he will seek the Republican nomination for Texas Commissioner of Agriculture in the March 2006 primary in a recent statewide tour. Joining Staples in Waco were (left to right) TFB Legislative Director Steve Pringle; State Sen. Kip Averitt of Waco; Staples; and TFB Organization Director Joe Maley.
Sen. Todd Staples (R-Palestine) announced that he will seek the Republican nomination for Texas Agriculture Commissioner in the March 6 primary in a whirlwind, statewide tour the week following Labor Day.
One of his stops Sept. 7 was the Heart of Texas Fair Complex in Waco, where he was met by Texas Farm Bureau staff, State Sen. Kip Averitt (R-Waco), former State Sen. David Sibley, and other elected officials and supporters. Texas Farm Bureau AGFUND earlier in the year urged Staples to run for Agriculture Commissioner.
"Agriculture is the second largest industry in Texas. We must develop policies which look to the future of agriculture communities," Staples said, explaining his reason for entering the race to be the head of the Texas Department of Agriculture. "Protecting food supplies, the environment, water resources and private property rights are at the forefront of today's agriculture issues. Economic development is an essential element for job growth and assisting rural communities to diversify the face of agriculture. Improving and providing access to the latest, cutting-edge technology in agriculture is critical for our producers and processors."
Staples said Texas agriculture is a critical part of the foundation of the state's economy.
"My goal for the future of agriculture is to foster partnerships with urban communities and continue development opportunities for rural areas to grow and sustain a healthy and thriving economy," he added.
Averitt described Staples as "a positive, hardworking champion for Texas. Whatever the issue, Staples jumps in and takes the reins. He will be an aggressive supporter and promoter of Texas agriculture and will lead the state in the right direction."
Staples is currently serving his fifth year as state senator for District 3. He was first elected to the Legislature in 1995, serving six years in the Texas House. A real estate appraiser, broker and partner with his father in a cow-calf operation, Staples resides in Palestine with his wife and children.
