The National Chicken Council joined a list of agriculture groups, livestock and poultry producers in sending a letter on July 26 urging for swift Senate confirmation for Dr. Mindy Brashears to be U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Under Secretary for Food Safety.
The letter, addressed to Senators Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), John Thune (R-SD) and Dick Durbin (D-IL). The letter can be found here.
The Under Secretary for Food Safety position was last filled in 2013 by Dr. Elisabeth Hagen. Dr. Brashears was formally nominated for the position by President Trump in May 2018. USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue named Dr. Brashears Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety, a position that does not require Senate confirmation, in January 2019.
“Without a doubt,” the letter reads, “we believe Dr. Brashears is the best choice to fulfill this function. Her unique background and experience regarding food safety issues is unparalleled. Moreover, her work since assuming her duties as Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety engaging with the regulated community, small and very small processing facilities, and consumer groups have shown her leadership on these issues.”
The letter was also signed by the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Sheep Industry Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, Catfish Farmers of America, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Pork Producers Council, National Turkey Federation, North American Meat Institute and United Egg Producers.
