In an interview with Rappahannock News last Saturday, Virginia Sen. Mark Warner, who is seeking re-election this November, cited rising costs from tariffs, a prolonged drought, and the rapid integration of artificial intelligence as among the most pressing issues facing Virginia.
Roxy Pearl Beebecenter, a summer intern with the newspaper, spoke with Warner during a campaign stop to address the Louisa County Democratic Committee. Tom Perriello, who is running for Virginia’s 5th Congressional District seat, also appeared at the event.
Asked about the impact the tariffs would have on farmers, including higher prices for fertilizer, gasoline and diesel, Warner said he was deeply concerned.
“We’re very concerned. Fertilizer costs are up 40 percent, and that’s a direct result of both the tariffs and the Iran war. The ingredients in fertilizer, a lot of it, goes through the Strait of Hormuz. And again, the president says the war is over, but the Strait is closed again today. So, you know, the most important thing is to reverse Trump’s policy on this war and tariffs.”
What help is there for Virginia farmers struggling in the face of a statewide drought?
“When I was governor, we actually had to put in place mandatory water restrictions. People were angrier than ever because they felt like how can you restrict me when I’m drawing water from a well? … The groundwater isn’t under your property, it’s just under a lot of groundwater.” [properties]. ”
Warner said he hopes Virginia doesn’t have to impose mandatory water restrictions again and pointed to the state’s unusually hot June as evidence that climate change is “not hypothetical.”
