National FFA Organization Faces Congressional Scrutiny over Syngenta Ties, Tax-Exempt Status Questioned

Lawmakers request information from CEO Scott Stump over sponsorship concerns and potential implications for the organization’s nonprofit status.

ffa iowa state fair livestock show_ farmher_IMG_3152 copy.jpg

FFA students participate in junior livestock shows at the Iowa State Fair.

FarmHER, Inc.

INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (RFD NEWS) — The National FFA Organization has been given a deadline of today to respond to congressional allegations that put its tax-exempt status in jeopardy. Some members of Congress question the organization’s relationship with Syngenta and the seed company’s connection to China.

In a seven-page letter, they claim the company is linked to the Chinese government and could provide the government with direct access to FFA students. Lawmakers requested information from CEO Scott Stump by today.

RFD NEWS reached out to the National FFA Organization for comment. They told us in part:

“While FFA accepts support from generous donors and sponsors [...] It does not and cannot advocate the views of any donor or sponsor. FFA has received a congressional inquiry about one of our sponsors, and it intends to cooperate fully. As this is an ongoing investigation, FFA will have no further comment.”

DISCLOSURE: RFD-TV is a member of the National FFA Sponsors Board.

Related Stories
Ethanol and feed coproduct exports remain strong outlets for corn demand, even after April’s pullback.
Five State Star honorees discussed the projects and experiences that earned them statewide recognition.
USDA raised exports by $2.5 billion from February, while imports are forecast at $205.5 billion. The resulting $29 billion agricultural trade deficit remains a reminder that higher shipments alone do not resolve trade pressure.
HTS Commodities’ Lewis Williamson joins us to recap USDA’s latest Crop Progress Report, troubling winter wheat conditions, and key market factors shaping the markets as the growing season progresses.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Harry Anderson will discuss and highlight Total Feeds and the different brands they offer on the market today.
Cabela’s Senior Wildlife Biologist, Rans Thomas, will discuss improving general wildlife and land management techniques on your property with the assistance of Cabela’s products and expertise.
Join a group of John Deere Product experts as they discuss how the all-new 4M and 4R Series Compact Utility Tractors are changing the game with superior technology.
AGCO Gleaner’s Kevin Bien will discuss their newest series of combine harvesters and will be making a very special announcement!
Join the experts as they bring their latest Hardworking, Smooth-Riding Polaris RANGER models to the studio and recap their participation in RFD-TV’s The American Presented by Polaris RANGER.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.