News

Ag Secretary being vetted for Democratic VP spot

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack reportedly is being considered for the number-two spot on the Democratic Presidential ticket. The Washington Post reports Vilsack has emerged as a real contender late in the process.

The Post says Vilsack, as a former governor of Iowa, would be positioned to help deliver that state, as well as many others with heavy influence in rural agriculture. Vilsack is also the only cabinet secretary to have served throughout all of President Obama’s presidency.

One issue that might present a problem for the Clinton campaign is Vilsack’s support of the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Vilsack is an active supporter of the trade agreement along with President Obama. Clinton initially supported the agreement until pressure from organized labor led her to change her position.

Vilsack has not commented publically on a potential nomination and has referred questions about a possible vice presidential selection to the Clinton campaign.

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  Vilsack and his wife are tied to HSUS. He might not get as much support from Ag interests as Clinton thinks. It will definitely turn off others.

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  I hope that there is a way to reach the Clinton campaign and let them in on Agriculture’s opinion of Vilsack. Clinton’s team may already know this, but a firm reminder would be in order. Ag is a “yuuuuuuge” influence, use it, please.

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