What Are Blue Highways?
On the old Rand McNally road maps, the main interstate highways were printed in red. The smaller, quieter, rural roads—the ones that ran past farms, schoolhouses, old cafés and courthouse squares—were drawn in blue. These blue highways connected people to place, labor to dignity, and past to future. The Blue Highway Coalition is named in their honor. We exist to help rural communities reclaim their future by protecting the core institutions that hold them together.
Our Mission
Defend What Matters in Rural America We stand for four essential commitments. These are not abstract ideals. These are the pillars of survival and opportunity in towns across this country. We believe any leader—no matter their party—should be judged by how they serve.
Independent Farmers and Ranchers
Small producers face growing threats from multinational corporate consolidation, land speculation, and rigged markets. At the same time, they’re on the front lines of climate change—facing drought, floods, and heat—but also offering climate solutions through regenerative practices and stewardship of the land. We believe in fighting for the independent farmer—not just to preserve a way of life, but because the land, food security, and climate future of this country depend on them.
Public Schools in Rural Communities
Rural public schools are being drained of funds by private voucher programs and political agendas that ignore the real needs of students, families, and teachers. These schools are more than education centers—they are community anchors, event halls, emergency shelters, and a source of identity. We advocate for fully funded, locally controlled public schools that serve everyone. When rural kids are given real investment, they stay, thrive, and lead.
Rural Healthcare Access
Nearly 200 rural hospitals have closed in the past two decades. Millions of rural Americans now drive hours for basic care. Mental health services, maternity wards, and preventive care are vanishing. We support bold, creative solutions—from regional health hubs to mobile clinics and telehealth expansion—to ensure that rural residents have more than a patchwork of options.
Level the Field for Builders and Makers
We work to remove the barriers that hold back small, independent business owners—especially in the trades, trucking, and the broader builder and maker economy. These are the folks who keep America running. Our mission is to level the playing field, cut through red tape, and ensure they get the fair shot they’ve earned.
