Democrat Clayton Tucker and his priorities in Texas Agriculture Commissioner race

Democrat Clayton Tucker from Lampasas says agricultural production costs, market competition, water availability and consumer protection would be among his priorities if elected Texas Agriculture Commissioner in November.

Tucker says his experience in agriculture and agricultural policy has influenced his campaign.
His family has operated a farm in Lampasas for nearly 60 years. Tucker also serves as secretary of the Texas Farmers Union and has worked with the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance.
He says his professional background includes international trade policy, teaching and agricultural and water research.

Agricultural markets and production costs

Tucker says he entered the race in part because of concerns about the concentration of ownership and market power within the agricultural industry.
"You know, I like to say there's no silver bullet to fix our ag, but there's definitely a silver buckshot," Tucker said.
He argues that consolidation among agricultural processors and suppliers has contributed to higher costs for farmers and consumers.
"Those few companies have such a stranglehold over that little middle bit that they're price gouging farmers, they're price gouging consumers, they're driving farmers out of business," Tucker said.
Tucker supports expanding local agricultural processing and cooperative operations.
He proposes using grants administered through the Texas Department of Agriculture to help establish smaller processing facilities and cooperatives.
Tucker also supports providing grants and other assistance to farmers interested in transitioning to regenerative agricultural practices, which he says could help reduce production costs.

Water availability and development

Tucker identifies water availability as another concern for Texas agriculture.
He says the water and electricity demands associated with artificial intelligence data centers and other developments should be evaluated for their potential effects on agriculture.
"We could have perfect policies over here, but if we get the water issue wrong, none of it honestly matters. Water is life, agua es vida, we have to get water right," Tucker said.
Tucker proposes using agricultural impact studies to examine the potential effects of development projects on water supplies, electricity demand and surrounding communities.

Consumer protection and food costs

Tucker says he would place additional emphasis on enforcing weights-and-measures regulations.
The Texas Department of Agriculture is responsible for inspecting and regulating certain commercial measuring devices to help ensure accurate transactions.
"So it'd be my responsibility to make sure that when you buy a pound, you get a pound; when you buy a gallon, you get a gallon," Tucker said.
Tucker also supports increasing opportunities for Texas farmers and ranchers to supply food to public schools.
He argues that expanding local processing and increasing competition could improve prices received by producers while reducing costs for consumers.

Appeal to voters

Tucker says he hopes voters will consider his positions regardless of political affiliation.
During the interview, he compared political parties to sports teams and said he believes partisan divisions can distract from issues affecting voters.
"You cheer for your team, but then we forget the people we're actually fighting for, which is all of us," Tucker said.
Tucker faces Republican Nate Sheets and Libertarian Austin Kelly in the November 3 general election