Congressman Darin LaHood Visits Illinois Soybean Association Headquarters to Discuss Key Issues Impacting Illinois Farmers

Bloomington, Ill. - May 28, 2026 - Congressman Darin LaHood visited the Illinois Soybean Association's (ISA) headquarters in Bloomington on Tuesday to meet with ISA leaders, staff, and Illinois soybean producers to discuss biofuels and other key issues impacting farmers across the state.

The visit provided an opportunity for Congressman LaHood to engage directly with Illinois soybean leaders and farmers and hear firsthand about the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Discussions focused on the importance of strengthening domestic biofuels markets, supporting rural economies, ensuring Illinois farmers remain competitive in today's agricultural landscape, and the need for certainty around federal agriculture policy, including the future of the Farm Bill.

ISA leadership highlighted the critical role biofuels play in creating demand for Illinois soybeans while also contributing to American energy independence and economic growth in rural communities.

"We appreciate Congressman LaHood taking the time to visit with our farmers and hear directly from Illinois soybean producers about the issues impacting agriculture today," said Kevin "KJ" Johnson, Director of Government Relations & Strategy at the Illinois Soybean Association. "Congressman LaHood has been a strong advocate for Illinois agriculture, and we are grateful for his continued partnership and leadership on behalf of Illinois farmers and rural communities."

"Representing one of the largest ag districts in the nation, I always appreciate the chance to hear directly from members of the Illinois Soybean Association on legislative priorities that will support our farmers," said Rep. LaHood. "I look forward to maintaining a close partnership with their team to strengthen Illinois' biofuels and agriculture industries."

The visit reflects ISA's ongoing work to engage policymakers on issues important to Illinois soybean farmers and to advance policies that support the long-term success of agriculture, biofuels, and rural communities across the state.

From left to right: Jason Lay, GROWMARK Board Vice Chairman, Kevin "KJ" Johnson, ISA Director of Government Relations & Strategy; Congressman Darin LaHood; John Lumpe, ISA Chief Executive Officer; Bryan Severs, ISA Board Chairman; Ron Kindred, ISA Board; David Kubik, ISA Biofuels & Trade Policy Manager; Mark Read, ISA Board; Rob Shaffer, ISA Board

###

The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) checkoff and membership programs represent more than 43,000 soybean farmers in Illinois. The checkoff funds market development, soybean production and government relations efforts, while the membership program, Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG) and the Illinois Soybean Growers PAC actively advocates for positive and impactful legislation for farmers at local, state and national levels. ISA upholds the interests of Illinois soybean farmers through promotion, advocacy, research and education with the vision of becoming a trusted partner of Illinois soybean farmers to ensure their profitability now and for future generations. For more information, visit the website www.ilsoy.org and www.ilsoygrowers.com.

MEDIA CONTACT
Betsy Osman
Illinois Soybean Association
[email protected]