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Biden picks former House Ag Committee member for USDA Rural Development post

President Biden has selected former House Ag Committee member Xochitl Torres Small as his pick for undersecretary of rural development at the USDA.

The White House said Torres Small has employed her experience organizing in vulnerable, rural communities to achieve lasting investments that combat persistent poverty.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says her nomination is in response to rural stakeholders and Congress, who have emphasized the importance of having a dedicate advocate for rural communities and her expertise will further USDA’s mission to advance equity and opportunity in and for rural America. 

Torres Small, a Democrat from New Mexico lost her reelection bid last November.  She represented the state’s second congressional district, which includes large rural areas.

Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow says she’s pleased with the nomination and says Torres Small was a champion for rural development during her time in Congress.  Stabenow says Rural Development plays an essential role in so many programs that help small towns and rural areas thrive. 

Torres Small nomination will need to be confirmed by the Senate.