The National Farmers Union (NFU) has recognized former U.S. Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa with the 2025 Award for Meritorious Service to American Agriculture. This accolade, the highest awarded by the NFU, was presented during the opening banquet of their 123rd Anniversary Convention held in Oklahoma City.
NFU President Rob Larew praised Harkin's long-standing commitment to American family farmers throughout his extensive career in Congress. "Senator Tom Harkin was steadfastly committed to American family farmers throughout his life and 40-year career in the U.S. Congress," Larew stated. He further acknowledged Harkin's significant contributions by saying, "NFU is proud to honor him with the 2025 Award for Meritorious Service to American agriculture, recognizing his dedication to family farmers and our communities. He’s been a friend and a staunch ally to Farmers Union for decades. We congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition."
During his tenure in Congress, Harkin focused on agricultural issues, beginning with his role on the House Agriculture Committee while representing Iowa’s 5th Congressional District for ten years in the House of Representatives. Subsequently, he served five consecutive terms in the U.S. Senate and chaired the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.
Harkin's legislative efforts consistently supported family farmers' interests. Notably, he co-authored the Biofuels Security Act of 2006 aimed at promoting renewable fuels and enhancing energy security. His assignments also included roles on various subcommittees such as Hunger, Nutrition and Family Farms; Rural Revitalization; Conservation; Forestry and Credit; as well as co-chairing the Senate Rural Health Caucus where he advocated for stronger healthcare policies.
His leadership was pivotal during negotiations leading up to the passage of the 2008 Farm Bill while chairing the Senate Agriculture Committee.
