Policy Priorities

The federal government should pass policies that provide rural people with the tools and opportunities we need to build a good life. Our country runs on the work and innovation of working people. But for decades, big corporations and the ultrawealthy have shaped the government to give them special treatment and put up barriers for the rest of us. It’s time to reshape the government for working people. 

In rural communities across the country, people are working hard to care for our families and our neighbors. The government can support us with timely, popular, and meaningful policies. We’ve organized policies into four pillars — the key ingredients for thriving rural communities.

The Four Pillars to Reshape Government for Working People

Rein in corporate greed and support workers, small businesses, and farmers

Level the playing field for working families, small businesses, and family farms.

Issue Priorities

Empower Workers • Lower Costs • Limit Corporate Power • Support Rural Economies • Fair Trade

Invest in foundational infrastructure for thriving communities

Every family needs a basic foundation to build a good life for themselves and thriving communities for everyone.

Issue Priorities

Fair Taxes • Credit • Child Care • Education • Job Training • Infrastructure • Health Care

Everyone gets a fair deal

Protect people’s freedom to live and work safely and without discrimination

Issue Priorities

No Cruelty on Taxpayer’s Dime • Health Care • Native Nations • Labor Protections • Citizenship • Healthy and Safe Communities • Equal Rights • Voter Access

*Photo by Mike Kane, courtesy of RuralOrganizing.org Education Fund

Stewarding our land and natural resources

Rural America is vital to the health and wellness of our country, and rural communities can play a critically important role in developing more sustainable and resilient food and energy systems.

Issue Priorities

Conserve Our Natural Resources • Public Lands • Renewable Energy Plan • Clean Air and Water

*Photo by Tim Crawford, courtesy of Northern Plains Resource Council