President Trump appoints Gary Washington as acting Ag Secretary

In a series of announcements, President Donald Trump has named Gary Washington as the acting Secretary of Agriculture.

Washington was selected as the USDA Chief Information Officer in February 2018. His appointment comes as Brooke Rollins awaits Senate confirmation for the role, with her hearing scheduled for Thursday in the Senate Agriculture Committee.

In addition, the President has announced James Payne will temporarily lead the EPA, and Juan Millan will serve as the acting Ambassador of Trade in the U.S. Trade Representative’s office.

Related Stories
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins made the announcement yesterday at the grand opening of a new food safety lab in Missouri, where researchers will do Listeria testing.
“Bottom line: food security is national security!”
“This is a major investment in the agricultural economy... “

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Ethanol markets remain mixed — weaker production and blend rates are being partially balanced by stronger exports as winter demand patterns take shape.
Tariff relief may soften grocery prices, but it also intensifies competition for U.S. fruit, vegetable, and beef producers as cheaper imports regain market share.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is helping connect veterans with resources to pursue careers in farming and agriculture.
USMEF’s Jay Theiler discusses his leadership role in representing U.S. beef and pork and provides an update on this week’s conference in Indianapolis.
Manure from a hog farm is more than just waste; it is also becoming a key renewable resource for operations.