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Mutual Talks with Presidential Candidates about Issues Facing Florida Citrus

LAKELAND, Fla. (January 26, 2008) – Florida Citrus Mutual hosted two Republican presidential candidates today to discuss the various issues facing the Florida citrus industry.

Govs. Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney each had a chance to talk with Mutual’s grower members about a number of topics including immigration reform, trade policy and funding for greening and canker research.
Huckabee took a morning tour of Mutual member Victor Story’s citrus grove. In the afternoon, Romney discussed issues with citrus leaders and then addressed a throng of supporters at Mutual’s Lakeland headquarters.

“We told the candidates that any immigration reform must contain an effective guest worker program that brings workers in, keeps track of the workers while they are here, and then sends them home when the season is over,” said Michael W. Sparks, executive VP/CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual. “The future of agriculture – not just the Florida citrus industry – depends on it. Florida citrus generates a statewide economic impact of close to $9 billion and after hearing our voice I think both candidates better understand the importance of having a safe, reliable domestic food supply.”

“I thank Govs. Huckabee and Romney for talking to the grower members of Florida Citrus Mutual.”

Sparks said Mutual does not endorse a particular presidential candidate at this time.

Founded in 1948 and currently representing nearly 8,000 grower members, Florida Citrus Mutual is the state’s largest citrus growers’ organization. For more information, please visit www.flcitrusmutual.com.

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