ASA appoints Madelyn Derks as director of government affairs

USA – The American Soybean Association (ASA) has named Madelyn Derks as its new Director of Government Affairs, a strategic appointment aimed at boosting the organisation’s regulatory and legislative engagement on behalf of U.S. soybean growers.

Madelyn Derks brings a wealth of Capitol Hill experience to the role, having most recently served as legislative director for U.S. Representative Mark Alford of Missouri.

In that capacity, she managed a broad portfolio including agriculture, energy, trade, and rural broadband, and played a key role in shaping the Congressman’s work on the House Appropriations Committee.

Notably, she organised a farm bill listening session that drew over 500 participants, underscoring her ability to convene stakeholders and drive policy dialogue.

Her earlier roles include serving under U.S. Representative Vicky Hartzler and interning with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, where she gained firsthand insight into agricultural policy development and coalition building.

ASA highlighted her track record of advancing legislation that protects farmer access to crop protection tools, clarifies agricultural product labelling, and strengthens USDA programs, issues that align closely with ASA’s regulatory priorities.

“Madelyn brings a strong record of advancing agricultural policy and building coalitions to achieve results,” said Alexa Combelic, ASA’s Senior Director of Government Affairs.

“Her expertise will be invaluable as ASA addresses complex regulatory challenges impacting soybean farmers”.

In her new role, Derks will oversee ASA’s regulatory portfolio, which includes critical areas such as crop protection, agricultural biotechnology, and environmental regulations.

Her appointment comes at a pivotal time as ASA intensifies its advocacy efforts around the 2025 Farm Bill, sustainability standards, and international trade policies affecting soybean exports.

The ASA, which represents soybean farmers nationwide, continues to play a central role in shaping agricultural policy and ensuring that farmer voices are heard in Washington.

With Derks at the helm of government affairs, the association is set to deepen its influence and navigate the evolving policy landscape with renewed vigor.

Her appointment signals ASA’s commitment to proactive, informed advocacy and its strategic investment in leadership that understands both the legislative process and the agricultural community it serves.

As regulatory pressures mount and global markets shift, ASA’s strengthened policy team will be instrumental in securing a resilient future for U.S. soybean producers.

 Sign up to HERE receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.