Remarks of Senator John F. Kennedy, Sparta, Wisconsin, September 25, 1959

It is a great pleasure for a Democrat to visit Sparta. Here the co-ops have proved the wisdom of the Democratic contention that strong co-ops are an important feature of a sound farm program. When, three years ago, the National Grape Cooperative Association purchased the Welch Grape Juice Company, it proved to farmers and cooperatives all over the United States that it was possible to establish a completely integrated unit and give the farmers the advantages of all the middlemen's profits.

I am particularly happy to be in a state which has recognized the statesmanship and ability of such outstanding Democrats as your governor, Gaylord Nelson, and my colleague, Senator Proxmire. No state has a Governor and a Senator more dedicated to strengthening the co-op movement than Wisconsin. The leadership furnished by Governor Nelson and Senator Proxmire is appreciated by every citizen in our nation.

They have pointed out that while farmers, through research and technological advances, have constantly improved their production, they have lagged far behind the rest of the nation in the marketing of their products. That is why it is so important to encourage the cooperative movement.

This you have recognized. For here in America's Dairy land, 55% of all local dairy plants are organized by farmers as cooperatives. There is, in addition, evidence of greater expansion through consolidation and merger among the small dairy co-ops.

Source: David F. Powers Personal Papers, Box 32, "Farming Cooperatives, Sparta, WI, 25 September 1959." John F. Kennedy Presidential Library.