American Farm Bureau backs nominee to head USDA

The American Farm Bureau Federation recently said it strongly endorses former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue for a top spot in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

AFBF President Zippy Duvall said the nomination of Perdue is welcome news to farmers in the U.S. in a recent new. release.

“The nomination of former Georgia Gov.Sonny Perdue for secretary of Agriculture is welcome news to the nation’s farmers and ranchers," Duvall said in the release. "Gov. Perdue will provide the strong voice that agriculture needs in the new administration."

Duvall described the characteristics that were so appealing to farmers and ranchers.

"He is an outstanding nominee," Duvall said in the release. "I have known Gov. Perdue for years. I’ve seen firsthand his commitment to the business of agriculture as we worked together on issues facing farmers and ranchers in our home state of Georgia. He understands the challenges facing rural America because that’s where he was born and raised. He is a businessman who recognizes the impact immigration reform, trade agreements and regulation have on a farmer’s bottom line and ability to stay in business from one season to the next.“

The American Farm Bureau is looking forward to continuing our work with the USDA under Perdue’s leadership, the release said. The freedom to access cutting-edge technologies would farmers to reach new markets and make decisions that protect their businesses and resources, the release said.

Hans McPherson, president of the Montana Farm Bureau said his group is not familiar with the nominee but will support him based on the recommendations from AFBF.

"Although we are not personally acquainted with Mr. Perdue, Montana Farm Bureau will certainly follow the lead of the American Farm Bureau in supporting his nomination," McPherson said in a release. "The fact he has the background as a veterinarian, businessman and governor means he will provide a balanced view of science, business and public service. He obviously understands agriculture and the challenges farmers and ranchers face today. We look forward to working with him as he performs the variety of duties handled by the secretary of Agriculture.”