"We ask you to take action to make sure any protections for pesticides are stricken from this Appropriations bill," the letter says, or risk losing Republican backing.

Jeff Louderback covers news and features on the White House and executive agencies for The Epoch Times. He also reports on Senate and House elections. A professional journalist since 1990, Jeff has a versatile background that includes covering news and politics, business, professional and college sports, and lifestyle topics for regional and national media outlets.