Ag Secretary Reaction

From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson. More of President Trump’s cabinet is being confirmed, including the new Ag Secretary Brook Rollins who got the news last Thursday.

During a phone call with Northwest media that morning, U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse heard about Rollins’ confirmation for the first time …

NEWHOUSE … “That’s really good news. You broke that news to me. You know, I hadn’t heard that yet. I knew they were voting at some point today over in the Senate, but congratulations to the new Secretary. I don’t know her personally but that’s going to change here very quickly. We’re going to have meetings with her scheduled.”

Newhouse says Rollins truly understands what farming is all about …

NEWHOUSE … “I’m excited about this. I’m delighted that a farm girl from Texas who knows something about agriculture is going to be at the helm of the USDA at a time when, like we’ve been talking about, agriculture is facing a lot of challenges. So, it’s great to have somebody there that understands farm country.”

As a member of the House Ag Committee, Newhouse looks forward to working with Rollins …

NEWHOUSE … “We’re going to bring to her some of the things that are important to us in the Pacific Northwest, absolutely. And I look forward very much to having those conversations as soon as possible.”

Rollins, confirmed with a 72-28 Senate vote, becomes the 33rd Secretary of Agriculture.