Iowa leaders laud former governor’s confirmation as Ag Secretary

(WOWT) - Iowa leadership on Tuesday expressed their appreciation for a former governor’s confirmation into the nation’s top agricultural post.

The Senate voted 92-7 Tuesday to confirm Tom Vilsack as Agriculture secretary, his second run at the Cabinet post. Vilsack served two terms as governor of Iowa, from 1999 to 2007.

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said he spoke in favor of Vilsack during his confirmation hearing Monday.

The senator posted an audio clip Tuesday about Vilsack and other recent confirmations, highlighting the willingness for bipartisanship among Senate Republicans.

Secretary Vilsack has the knowledge and experience
As an Iowan and former governor, Secretary Vilsack has the knowledge and experience to keep supporting America’s farmers while they feed and fuel our country. The Senate will soon vote on his nomination to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and he has Senator Grassley’s full support.
Posted by Senator Chuck Grassley on Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said he was qualified for the job, but also expressed concerns about potential policy decisions.

During his confirmation, Ernst raised questions about Vilsack’s interest in electric vehicles rather than purchasing vehicles for the department that run on ethanol and whether he would support the Renewable Fuel Standard — something Rep. Cindy Axne remarked on in her statement as well.

Gov. Kim Reynolds also posted in support of Vilsack’s confirmation Tuesday.

Tom Vilsack will be a strong voice for Iowa Ag at USDA! Happy to see his nomination overwhelmingly confirmed by the US Senate today.
Posted by Governor Kim Reynolds on Tuesday, February 23, 2021