On Groundhog Day, Agriculture Secretary-nominee Tom Vilsack found himself back in front of the Senate Agriculture Committee for a confirmation hearing. Vilsack is returning to the job he previously held for eight years during the Obama Administration. The former Iowa governor kicked off the hearing by saying this is a fundamentally different time in agriculture.
“I recognize the unprecedented challenge we face with COVID and while pursuing these ‘why not’ opportunities will not shirk the duties and responsibilities of the Department.”
Regarding the use of Commodity Credit Corporation funds, Vilsack said he’d ask for the same flexibility that was given to Secretary Sonny Perdue. Climate change, food security and market transparency were also highlighted.
