Senate Ag panelist Bennet coasts towards re-election as GOP threat fades
Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet, viewed as one of the most vulnerable senators at the start of the electoral season, is a safe bet for re-election, says political analyst Larry Sabato, because "the GOP is just not very competitive in Colorado this year." Similarly, Roll Call newspaper said Bennet, a member of the Agriculture Committee, "is now favored to retain his seat."
Republican dog fight may boost Sen. Bennet, hurt Grassley
Democrat Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, won the Senate race in Colorado in 2010 with a plurality of 48 percent in a seven-way race. Handicappers say Colorado will be one of the most competitive states this year yet Bennet's prospects are brightening - and could improve markedly due to Republican infighting.
Higher crop, flood insurance costs with climate change
The Government Accountability Office says cost of the taxpayer-subsidized crop and flood insurance programs could rise substantially in coming decades due to climate change.
Senators urge more market opening by Japan
Eighteen US senators sign letter to USTR Michael Froman saying United States should press Japan to increase market access for US farm exports.