President Trump Announces Nominations For Agriculture Undersecretaries

President Donald Trump late Wednesday announced his intention to nominate Ted McKinney as Agriculture undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs and Samuel H. Clovis Jr. as Agriculture undersecretary for research, education and economics. The White House also said that Trump’s previously announced nomination of Steve Censky to be Agriculture deputy secretary has been sent to the Senate. Censky is CEO of the American Soybean Association. All three positions require Senate confirmation. Censky and McKinney are likely to be confirmed easily, but the Clovis nomination could face challenges. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today praised both nominations. Of McKinney, Perdue said, “For our new undersecretary position emphasizing international trade, I have always said that I want someone who wakes up every morning asking how we can sell more American agricultural products in foreign markets. Ted McKinney is that person. His longstanding background in agriculture, economic development, and global issues will make him an unapologetic advocate for U.S. products in the world marketplace.” Of Clovis, Perdue said, “Dr. Clovis was one of the first people through the door at USDA in January and has become a trusted adviser and steady hand as we continue to work for the people of agriculture. He looks at every problem with a critical eye, relying on sound science and data, and will be the facilitator and integrator we need. Dr. Clovis has served this nation proudly since he was a very young man, and I am happy he is continuing to serve.” Clovis’ nomination is expected to be controversial because he does not have a scientific background or advanced degree in science, and the undersecretary position he would hold is also expected to be the USDA chief scientist.