As the nation prepares for the upcoming elections on November 5, which will determine the next President and reshuffle the House of Representatives and Senate, the Congressional Wine Caucus (CWC) is poised to continue its advocacy for the American wine industry. Currently, the CWC boasts 150 members from both chambers of Congress, and WineAmerica plans to collaborate with the Caucus to attract more legislators following the election.
On September 25, 2024, WineAmerica and the CWC co-hosted an American Wine Reception at the Longworth House Office Building, marking the official launch of the “Come Over October” celebration of wine. This event underscored the significance of wine production across all 50 states, its economic impact, and its role in fostering community, coinciding with a bipartisan agreement to keep the government operational.
Established in 1999, the CWC is a bipartisan, bicameral assembly that represents the interests of the national wine community, addressing concerns from “grape to glass.” Co-chaired by Representatives Mike Thompson (D-CA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA), both of whom hail from significant wine-producing regions and are grape growers themselves, the Caucus plays a vital role in legislative advocacy. Karen MacNeil, author of The Wine Bible, conducted interviews with the co-chairs during the tasting event.
The CWC currently includes 150 members, and post-election, WineAmerica will seek to expand this number. The unique appeal of the Wine Caucus sets it apart as one of the most engaging groups on Capitol Hill.
Fostering a Supportive Business Environment
To cultivate quality wine, a favorable climate for grape growing is essential, but equally important is a supportive business environment shaped by legislators. While the wine industry must adapt to annual climatic changes, it can influence the legislative climate through education and advocacy.
WineAmerica, alongside its State and Regional Associations Advisory Council (SRAAC), which encompasses around 40 grape and wine associations nationwide, actively engages with lawmakers. With representation from 45 states, WineAmerica can effectively approach nearly 90 Senate offices, presenting a united front on issues affecting grapes and wine.
Michael Kaiser, executive vice president and director of government affairs for WineAmerica, spearheads these initiatives, maintaining daily communication with the CWC and legislative offices. The highlight of the advocacy efforts occurs during the annual May “fly-in,” where members from across the country convene in Washington, D.C., to meet with their representatives. This year, approximately 100 meetings were arranged, showcasing the significant influence of the wine community in legislative discussions.
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