Senate Confirms Perdue

The USDA finally has leadership under the Trump administration.  As expected Monday evening, the US Senate, easily confirmed Sonny Perdue as the 31st US Secretary of Agriculture.  Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was to swear in Perdue as USDA Secretary in the morning, before Perdue begins his first day of work, including a reception by USDA career staff and employees.

Senate Democrats largely backed Perdue, even while criticizing President Trump for proposing a big cut to USDA’s budget.

“For months rural America has not had a voice in this Administration, and frankly it shows,” said top ag Democrat Debbie Stabenow.  “President Trump’s budget makes it clear that rural America is not a top priority for his administration.  His proposal cuts USDA by 21%, the third largest cut of any federal agency.”

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