WASHINGTON, DC - Big things for the produce industry are happening in the political landscape. The United Fresh Produce Association has recently announced its support for Secratary of Agriculture nominee Thomas Vilsack.

Vilsack has served previously as the Agricultural Secretary during the Obama administration. Recently, Vilsack was nominated by the Biden Administration to once again serve in the same role.

“Congratulations to Secretary Vilsack for being unanimously supported by the Senate Agriculture Committee today, now moving his nomination to the Senate floor,” said CEO Tom Stenzel in a statement. “Secretary Vilsack has the experience needed to lead the agency in a difficult time and is keenly aware of the need to maintain and build a healthy fresh fruit and vegetable industry, while delivering our most nutritious products to Americans and consumers around the world.”

Earlier this week, the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas also expressed its support for the nomination of Vilsack in a letter to the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance.

“Secretary Vilsack clearly recognized in his opening statement to the committee the critical need to focus on both food insecurity and nutrition insecurity at the forefront of the challenges our nation is facing,” Stenzel continued. “We also know that he will continue to support efforts to secure a legal and stable workforce for agriculture, including legal status for today’s workers and a well-functioning future foreign guest worker program. United Fresh looks forward to once again be working with a trusted partner in Secretary Vilsack.”

Keep an eye on AndNowUKnow as we continue to report on the latest news affecting the fresh produce industry.

United Fresh Produce Association