Feb. 18, 2026:
The National FFA Organization said it will cooperate with a congressional inquiry examining one of its corporate sponsors, while emphasizing its nonpartisan mission and independence from donor influence. The youth agricultural education group released the following statement exclusively to the National Association of Farm Broadcasting News Service:
The National FFA Organization is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that serves to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. While FFA accepts support from generous donors and sponsors throughout the agricultural and agri-business community, it does not and cannot advocate the views for any donor or sponsor. FFA has received a Congressional inquiry about one of our sponsors, and it intends to cooperate fully.
At question is FFA’s alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party through a partnership with Chinese-owned Syngenta Group. FFA declined to provide additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. The inquiry comes amid heightened scrutiny from some members of Congress over partnerships between U.S.-based nonprofits and companies with foreign ownership ties.
February 10, 2026:
Federal lawmakers are demanding answers from the National FFA Organization about its partnership with the Syngenta group. The officials are concerned about the Communist-Party-controlled agribusiness as well as the organization’s push for DEI initiatives.
The inquiry is being led by the House Ways and Means Committee and the Congressional FFA Caucus, which say the organization’s relationship with the Syngenta Group raises concerns about foreign influence and whether FFA is operating in line with its stated mission as a tax-exempt nonprofit.
House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith and FFA Caucus co-chair Tracey Mann sent a letter to Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA organization, demanding documents and answers related to the partnership, Syngenta’s role in shaping internal policies, and the organization’s compliance with federal tax law.
“Working with a foreign adversary and prioritizing woke policies raises serious concerns about whether National FFA is complying with the requirements to maintain tax-exempt status,” the lawmakers said.
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