Minnesota Senator Al Franken announced yesterday he will be submitting his resignation to the U.S. Senate early next month. Minnesota farm groups are looking forward to working with Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith when she assumes that seat. Minnesota Farmers Union President Gary Wertish says his group will work with Smith on the new farm bill, as well as other ag issues.

He’s hoping Smith gets appointed to the Senate Ag Committee and thinks she would do well serving in that capacity.

Wertish says with her background it will also be positive to have Smith in the Senate working on trade issues.

Smith has already indicated an interest to run for the Senate seat once her interim term is up.