Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding Vilsack and Salazar Nominations
WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 17, 2008 – “We congratulate both former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack on his nomination as secretary of Agriculture and Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) on his nomination as secretary of Interior. Both men have demonstrated experienced, steady judgment when it comes to working on agriculture-related issues.
“During his tenure as Iowa’s governor, one of the nation’s top agriculture-producing states, Gov. Vilsack was an ardent supporter of furthering the use of renewable fuels such as ethanol, biodiesel and wind, as well as an advocate for biotechnology. He has been a strong proponent of international trade and expanding our export markets. His understanding and experience with many of the pressing issues facing agriculture today will serve him well in his new position.
“Sen. Salazar, is also uniquely qualified and experienced to serve as secretary of the Interior. He serves on the Energy and Natural Resources Committee and has been a strong proponent of expanding the development of renewable fuels. He is a recipient of the Friend of Farm Bureau award for his many pro-agriculture efforts and his life-long experience as a farmer will serve him well in addressing the concerns of agriculture.
“We look forward to working with both Gov. Vilsack and Sen. Salazar, as well as their respective agencies to carry-out the programs and policies that will benefit America’s farmers and ranchers and rural America.”-30-
| Contacts: | Tracy Taylor Grondine (202) 406-3642 tracyg@fb.org |
Cyndie Sirekis (202) 406-3649 cyndies@fb.org |
