WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Chairwoman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and John Boozman (R-Ark.), the Committee’s Ranking Member, today announced that the U.S. Senate confirmed Dr. Jose Emilio Esteban, to serve as Under Secretary for Food Safety at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Doug McKalip, to serve as Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
“It’s long overdue that these critical positions at USDA and the Office of U.S. Trade Representative are filled with Senate confirmed nominees. Dr. Esteban’s many years of experience and expertise will help USDA ensure that the food families put on their tables is safe. Doug McKalip has proven that he is ready for the essential task of growing new markets abroad and protecting our producers from unfair trade practices. I am glad my colleagues and I could come together to confirm these outstanding nominees,” said Chairwoman Stabenow.
“Two more key appointments for agriculture were confirmed in the closing hours of the session. As the chief agricultural negotiator at USTR, Doug McKalip will work hand in hand with recently confirmed Under Secretary Alexis Taylor to ensure America’s farmers and ranchers have fair access to the world’s markets. I am confident he will be a strong advocate for America’s farmers and ranchers. Dr. Jose Esteban, confirmed to serve as Under Secretary for Food Safety, brings years of experience and wealth of knowledge to one of the most crucial functions performed by USDA—ensuring the safety of the U.S. food supply. I congratulate both nominees on their confirmation and look forward to working with them to advance American agriculture,” said Senator Boozman.
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