According to a new survey, 98% of Floridians registered to vote in the upcoming 2022 election consider farming and ranching the most important industries in the state.
Florida farmers contribute $140 billion to the state’s economy each year and support 2 million jobs for Florida families.
During the pandemic, while food markets across the globe were disrupted for months at a time, Florida kept a surplus on food due to a strong domestic food supply. This was reflected in the survey, as 93% of Floridians approved of the job farmers did in terms of keeping grocery stores stocked.
Gene Adams, the chair of Florida Agriculture Coalition issued a statement in regard to the newly found data, saying that "Thanks to the farmers, ranchers, and growers across the Sunshine State, we have an abundance of locally grown food," adding "But it’s easy to take that for granted. We’re humbled to see the overwhelming support from Florida voters for the hard work and commitment of our farmers. These survey findings indicate that Florida families truly do count farmers among their many blessings."
The survey also showed that Florida's agricultural industry not only is produced domestically but upholds the entire nation in terms of the US food supply chain.
Florida’s agriculture industry grows, raises, and harvests more than 300 different commodities. Known as the nation’s winter salad bowl, much of the East Coast depends on Florida farmers for produce during the cold months.
In fact, 90% of respondents in the survey recognize that Americans at large and not just Floridians depend on Florida farming during the winter months.
The survey was conducted by the Tyson Group May 6 through 11 among a sample of 850 registered voters from across the state of Florida. Questions were asked via phone on both landlines and cell phones.
Ryan Tyson, of the Tyson Group, was pleased with the findings as well, stating "Rarely do we see such overwhelming support for an industry,” said Tyson. “But during this past year, we’ve seen voters recognize and acknowledge what is truly important in life, and safe, wholesome food is clearly top among them. Florida’s farmers are the best in the world, and our voters are grateful for them.
