NASDA applauds Callahan and Brashears confirmations

Press Release

ARLINGTON, Va. - National Association of State Departments of Agriculture CEO Ted McKinney congratulates Dr. Julie Callahan on her recent confirmation as the Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and Dr. Mindy Brashears on her confirmation as USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety. McKinney issued the following statement:

"Dr. Callahan and Dr. Brashears have an astute understanding of what it takes to successfully raise, grow, harvest and promote U.S. agricultural products given their deep experience with agricultural policy and regulation within the federal government," McKinney said. "This is a critical time to advance U.S. agriculture's competitiveness, reduce barriers to trade and improve food access for Americans and beyond. On behalf of NADSA members, we congratulate our friends on being confirmed for these essential positions and look forward to working with Dr. Callahan as we seek to open new markets for America's farmers and ranchers and Dr. Brashears as we continue our cooperative agreement with USDA Food Safety Inspection Service to keep U.S. produced food of the highest safety and quality."

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NASDA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association which represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries and directors of the departments of agriculture in all fifty states and four U.S. territories. NASDA grows and enhances American food and agricultural communities through policy, partnerships and public engagement. To learn more about NASDA and its trade programs and trade policy, please visit www.nasda.org.