John Rich has been outspoken about his political beliefs. Now he can put them into practice.
Videos by Wide Open Country
President Donald Trump recently appointed the "When You Love Someone" singer to the position of Special Envoy of American Landowners. We have the details below.
What Exactly Will John Rich Be Doing?
Essentially, Rich will talk with farmers, ranchers, and private landowners, and then share their concerns with government officials.
As explained in a press release issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), large-scale solar and wind power development is threatening farm and ranch land. This could impact those working in the agriculture industry. Rich will work with the USDA to ensure their voices are heard.
"President Trump has afforded me the great honor of serving as Special Envoy for American Landowners," said Rich. "I look forward to representing and advocating for landowners' rights and standing up for the farmers, ranchers, and rural families who work every day to provide for our country. Protecting private property rights and ensuring that landowners are not harassed, intimidated, or pressured by outside interests will be at the heart of this mission."
Rich Is Actually Well-Suited For the Job
Last year, Rich called President Trump for a favor. The utility company, Tennessee Valley Authority, wanted to build an energy facility near his home in Cheatham County. However, it would come at the expense of local farmland and community neighborhoods.
"The TVA was about to destroy several thousand acres of farmland, hundreds of homes, school districts, water supplies... just a total disaster (of a plan)," John explained on social media at the time.
Rich said he then called on President Trump and USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins to weigh in on the "situation." Eventually, the TVA changed its plans.
"This is just the beginning of what I hope turns into a complete revamping of the TVA," John said. "There should be new protocols put into place for how they have to behave. They should have to deal with zoning laws like every other energy company does."
Rich certainly knows how to get things done, which makes him uniquely qualified for his new job.
