USMEF Calls For Trade Office To Be At Full Strength

Before leaving on its August recess, the Senate confirmed Luke Lindberg to serve as USDA undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs, on a vote of 77-18.  U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom applauded the strong bipartisan support for Lindberg.

“Luke Lindberg has a very proven track record as a champion, not only for agriculture, but he really understands the trade issues that we’re all dealing with each and every day," Halstrom noted.  "And I have personally had the opportunity to work with him on several occasions in his former role at South Dakota Trade. South Dakota being a big ag state of course, so I’ve been able to see firsthand his command of the issues and his passion for Ag.”

Dr. Callahan Should Be Confirmed

Halstrom said it’s also important for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to be at full strength.  He’s urging the Senate to move quickly, when lawmakers return from their August recess, on President Trump’s nominee for chief agricultural negotiator, Dr. Julie Callahan.

“She’s already in the USTR, she’s had an active role for many, many years, and USMEF and a lot of the like ag groups are familiar with Dr. Callahan," Halstrom added.  "Of course, she knows most, if not all, of the issues already so it will be a very quick learning curve for Dr. Callahan and we’re excited about the opportunity.” 

Industry Reaction To Lindberg’s Confirmation:

“We congratulate Luke Lindberg on his Senate confirmation and look forward to working with him as the USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs,” said Mike Spier, U.S. Weather Associates President and CEO. “Lindberg will be helpful at the helm USDA’s trade efforts as we navigate new trade deals and continue our efforts to expand markets for U.S. wheat farmers.

“We also thank the U.S. Senate for prioritizing this position for confirmation. Having designated leadership for agriculture in place is critical during this period of rapid trade talks and for upcoming USDA trade missions.”

“[National Association of State Departments of Agriculture] welcomes Under Secretary Lindberg’s enthusiasm in addressing agricultural trade challenges and opportunities for U.S. farmers,” said NASDA CEO Ted McKinney.  “The agricultural industry needs a steadfast advocate in this role to stand with our farmers and exporters as they continue to provide safe and nutritious food to people worldwide. NASDA remains ready to collaborate closely with Under Secretary Lindberg and Secretary Rollins on these critical priorities.”

“Trade has been front and center in this administration, and with the sheer volume of deals in progress, it's critical to have a Senate confirmed official leading trade and foreign agricultural affairs for USDA,” said National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane.  “NCBA is thrilled to see Luke Lindberg confirmed to this post. Lindberg has spent his career expanding trade opportunities for American businesses and fixing unfair trade deals. We look forward to working with him to secure even more trade wins for America’s cattle farmers and ranchers.”

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com