Metro East Sun

Rep. Mike Bost, U.S. Congressman for Illinois’ 12th district, recently shared updates on agricultural policy and local engagement through a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter). The posts focused on new federal measures affecting farmland use and discussions with regional Farm Bureau leaders.

On August 19, 2025, Bost announced a significant policy shift from the Trump administration regarding farmland and solar energy projects: "Big news for our rural communities today: Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the Trump administration will stop taxpayer dollars from going to solar farms – often owned by foreign adversaries – that take America’s prime farmland out of production. This has long been a". A follow-up post provided an additional link related to the announcement: "https://t.co/530meud1L8."

Two days later, on August 21, 2025, Bost reported meeting with local agricultural stakeholders: "Had a great discussion with Farm Bureau leaders from Richland, Wabash, and Edwards Counties about the issues most important to Southern Illinois agriculture. Over a good meal, we talked about how the One Big, Beautiful Bill delivers real wins for farmers – like stronger crop".

Mike Bost has represented Illinois' 12th congressional district since his initial election victory in 2014. He has consistently secured re-election in subsequent cycles—including defeating William L. Enyart in 2014 (winning approximately 52.5% of the vote), Charles Baricevic in 2016 (54.3%), Raymond Lenzi in 2020 (60.4%), Brendan Kelly in 2018 (51.6%), and Chip Markel in 2022 (75%). These electoral results reflect sustained support among his constituents.

The recent federal decision highlighted by Bost comes amid ongoing debates over land use priorities and national security concerns regarding foreign investment in American agriculture.