BISHOP STATEMENT ON SONNY PERDUE NOMINATION TO LEAD USDA
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies for the 115th Congress, issued the following statement on the nomination of former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA):
"I am pleased by the President-elect's nomination of Sonny Perdue to lead USDA. I have a long working relationship with Governor Perdue since our time as members of the Georgia Senate, and I am confident in his ability to lead the Department. Governor Perdue, a trained veterinarian, is uniquely familiar with the importance of supporting farmers, ranchers, producers, and consumers, as Georgia boasts over 42,000 farms and an agricultural industry contributing over $71 billion annually to the Georgia and national economies. Further, having spent most of his life in Bonaire, Georgia, he knows firsthand the needs, hopes, and aspirations of rural America and will bring exceptional insight to the Department in that regard.
"The work carried out by USDA ensures our country remains an agriculture juggernaut, able to ensure food security both here and across the world. In addition to managing the nation's farm programs, USDA is responsible for our nutrition safety nets, is the primary outlet of support for rural areas, and administers vital land conservation programs.
"These responsibilities are important not only for the nation's economy, but also for our national security. Accordingly, as Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I look forward to working closely with Secretary Perdue to ensure USDA has the necessary resources to successfully carry out its mission."