Western Growers chief Tom Nassif says like the "silent majority of voters" who elected Trump yesterday, fruit and vegetable growers want a "government that functions". 

Western Growers CEO Tom Nassif

"Western Growers congratulates President-elect Donald Trump, Vice President-elect Mike Pence and the Republican Party on well-earned victories in the 2016 general election," Nassif said in a statement released today.

"In the aftermath of a historically-divisive political season, we encourage our elected leaders to mend broken fences and redouble their efforts to solve the many challenges facing our country.

"We are optimistic that President-elect Trump, the administration he installs and the 115th Congress will work together to pursue pragmatic solutions to key agricultural issues, including immigration reform, water supply, environmental regulations, international trade and the farm bill."

Nassif said he was proud of his personal endorsement of President-elect Trump during the early stages of his campaign.

"As a co-chair of his agricultural advisory team, I had the opportunity to advise President-elect Trump on subjects critical to the fresh produce industry, including water, immigration and environmental reform," Nassif said.

"In the coming months and throughout his administration, Western Growers will continue to stand at the forefront of the fresh produce industry and provide President-elect Trump with the support he needs to help enact policies that will ensure the long term viability of Arizona, California and Colorado family farmers."

Advocacy group United Fresh also welcomed the news of Trump's election today, while another key industry body the Produce Marketing Association (PMA) declined to comment.

In the foodservice arena, the National Restaurant Association also congratulated the Republican candidate on his "historic victory".

"On behalf of the country’s one million restaurants, we congratulate President-elect Trump, and we look forward to working with him in the months and years ahead to protect and expand the contributions restaurants make to our communities and our economy," said the association's CEO Dawn Sweeney.

"As the country ushers in new leadership in Washington, we will ensure that America’s restaurants have a seat at the table.

"As the nation’s second-largest private sector employer, restaurants contribute $782.7 billion to the economy every year and employ 14.4 million people in roles ranging from entry-level to ownership."

Sweeney said the group would work with Trump, his Administration and members of Congress to continue advocating for restaurants, their employees and customers.

"We are committed to working with both sides of the aisle to find solutions that grow our economy and help all Americans succeed in the work force," Sweeney said.

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