Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) is releasing a statement following his meeting with U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary nominee Tom Vilsack:
“The pandemic and ensuing economic crisis have caused millions of children and their families to go hungry. Our farmers have faced significant market disruptions as well as the devastating effects of climate change. Given his experience and vision, I know that Tom Vilsack will make food security one of USDA’s top priorities and ensure that farmers have the tools they need to play a critical role in protecting natural resources and addressing the climate crisis. I had the opportunity to virtually meet with Secretary Vilsack on Friday and we discussed the work that needs to be done to deliver relief for families and farmers in Pennsylvania and throughout the nation. He is committed to leading a diverse team at USDA and addressing the racial inequities in our food and agriculture system. At a time of national crisis, Tom Vilsack brings with him to USDA his eight years of prior experience as Secretary of Agriculture under President Obama, as well as first-hand, intricate knowledge of the department that will allow him to be effective on day one. I look forward to supporting his nomination.”
