Yesterday, Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development at a Federal Partners Forum held in Prescott, Arizona. The event brought together local, state, and federal officials to address the unique challenges facing rural communities across Arizona.

More than 120 local and regional leaders attended the summit, which was hosted by Yavapai College’s Center for Learning and Innovation. The forum featured senior officials from several federal agencies, including the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Throughout the morning, agency personnel highlighted available federal resources and outlined opportunities to strengthen rural economies as well as quality of life. Topics included expanding health care access, supporting small businesses, modernizing infrastructure, securing affordable housing, and improving broadband access. 

Attendees also had the opportunity to meet directly with federal partners to build stronger relationships, explore new collaborations, and identify programs that can support long-term community development.

“While our state faces many unique challenges, including Washington’s longstanding tendency to prioritize urban and coastal areas, we’re grateful to the Trump administration for putting rural interests at the forefront,” said Rep. Crane. “Yesterday’s forum served as a catalyst for new opportunities and partnerships across local, state, and federal levels. I appreciate Yavapai College for hosting, and I’m thankful to Lori Urban, Lori Corbin, and everyone who helped make this event a success.”