CALGARY, ALBERTA (RFD NEWS) — The Canadian agriculture community is mourning the sudden passing of Senator Todd Lewis, a longtime advocate for farmers and rural communities.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss Senator Lewis’ impact on Canadian agriculture and the reaction following his death.
In his interview with RFD News, Haney said the agriculture industry was shocked by the news, describing Lewis as a trusted grassroots voice and a respected leader across the farming community. Lewis was a fourth-generation Saskatchewan farmer who was recognized for his work in agricultural policy and his advocacy for rural communities.
Haney discussed Lewis’ path from local government and farm organizations to the Canadian Senate, where he was appointed in 2025. He said Lewis brought a practical approach to policy discussions and was known for listening to different perspectives and building consensus between commodity groups, industry representatives, and government leaders.
Haney also highlighted Lewis’ connections with farmers and industry members, noting his efforts to attend agricultural events and engage directly with producers. He said Senator Lewis’ passing leaves a significant loss for Canadian agriculture and the Senate, where he served as one of several senators with agricultural backgrounds.