Washington, D.C. —  Members of the South Dakota Farmers Union will present Senator John Thune with the Golden Triangle Award later today, the National Farmers Union's highest distinction for government service. Senator Thune will be recognized for his leadership in helping write the 2008 Farm Bill. Senator Thune, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, received the Golden Triangle in 2007 as well.

"I am sincerely honored to receive this award," said Thune. "The importance of agriculture to our state's economy cannot be overstated. With the new Farm Bill enacted, I look forward to working with my Senate Agriculture Committee colleagues to oversee the implementation of the programs that are so important to South Dakota. I always appreciate the agriculture policy input I receive from Farmers Union members across the state and I look forward to continuing to work with them in the future."

The award is given annually to members of Congress who have demonstrated outstanding leadership on issues affecting family farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.

In addition, the American Farm Bureau will be honoring Senator Thune on Wednesday with the "Friend of the Farm Bureau" award for the 110th Congress. He was similarly honored for his work in the 109th Congress.