Dexter, Missouri - Congressman Jason Smith (MO-08) visited Moreland’s Mules in Stoddard County Friday.

Congressman Smith discussed the unique challenges facing farmers and ranchers all across southern Missouri.

Dale Moreland, a retired Sergeant of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, provided a tour of his farm and presented the unique challenges of raising draft mules for competitions and shows. Mr. Moreland has been showing mules since 1987 and won Grand Champion Mule at the 2017 Missouri State Fair.

It's not every day you get to drive a mule, let alone a Missouri State Fair champion! I appreciate Dale and Carol Moreland sharing with me what sets Moreland's Mules apart and taking me for a ride on their mules Tom and Jerry.

Congressman Smith even got a chance to handle the reins and drive the mule team down a county road.