The Russell Group President and ag lobbyist Randy Russell said no one has a better relationship with the President-elect Biden than Tom Vilsack. “That will be extremely important for the agriculture and food industry on all of these policy debates. The debates aren’t just with Capitol Hill, but also within the administration. Having someone with that kind of influence and reputation will be important.” Vilsack has been an advocate for trade and building markets, rural broadband and will likely lead the effort in climate change. “Climate change has to be a win-win. It must be a value proposition for growers, not just a top-down approach,” said Russell. “I know Secretary Vilsack understands that.” Vilsack will need to be confirmed by the new Congress in January. Sub-cabinet positions at the USDA likely won’t be named until 2021.
