The former governor of North Dakota, Edward T Schafer, has been nominated by President Bush as the new Agricultural Secretary.
A Republican, Schafer succeeds Mike Johanns who has decided to campaign for Nebraska’s Senate seat.
Praise
Acting secretary Chuck Conner, praised the president’s choice in a press release by the USDA yesterday stating that Schafer’s background as governor of an agricultural state such as North Dakota is in a good position to understand burning agricultural issues.
“He is an optimistic, strong leader and will be welcomed by farmers, ranchers and other stakeholders”, said Conner.
Vice President of government affairs for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Jay Trutt, also commented that Schafer “will bring a new impetus to American agriculture in a period of new challenges in policy and technological developments”.
Related website:
• USDA