California's largest farm organization is applauding the selection of Assemblyman Robert Rivas, D-Hollister, as the lower chamber's 71st speaker.

The Democratic caucus unanimously chose Rivas on Nov. 10, making him the first speaker from an agricultural area since Cruz Bustamante in 1999.

“The state needs to hear more voices from rural and agricultural areas,” California Farm Bureau president Jamie Johansson said in a statement emailed to media. “Rob has served his community for over 20 years and as an Assemblymember, and Chairman of the Agricultural Committee, has brought that perspective and conviction to statewide solutions. We look forward to working with him to grow more food in this state so we can feed people while protecting the environment, and providing continued economic opportunities in urban and rural areas.”

Rivas said he was honored to be selected.

"I hope to ensure the door of opportunity that was available to my family remains open for future generations," he said.