Vilsack likely next ag secretary

Those familiar with the situation say President-Elect Biden has chosen Tom Vilsack as his agriculture secretary.

Politico reports Vilsack was a top adviser on agriculture and rural issues for Joe Biden’s presidential campaign. The former Iowa governor also served in the ag secretary role for eight years under President Barack Obama. He was reportedly a top candidate to be the running mate of Hillary Clinton back in 2016.

When previously leading USDA, Vilsack focused on more than just farmers with issues such as nutrition programs helping low-income Americans and rural development. He also oversaw an overhaul of school nutrition standards, an effort led by former first lady Michelle Obama.