Letter
Dear Senator Schumer and Senator McConnell:
The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture strongly supports President Biden’s nomination of Doug McKalip to serve as Chief Agricultural Negotiator at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and asks the Senate to quickly approve his nomination. NASDA works closely with the senior leadership of the U.S. Trade Representative in support of expanded trade opportunities for the products of American agriculture and has consistently advocated for the appointment of highly qualified candidates to serve in these critical positions.
Throughout his three decades of leadership in critical roles in agriculture trade policy, including his current role as trusted advisor to Secretary Vilsack, Mr. McKalip has represented American farmers, ranchers and agriculture around the world and advocated for U.S. agricultural products and technology.
Mr. McKalip has the experience to promote US agriculture across the globe and the passion, demeanor, and diplomacy to succeed.
Our nation is facing considerable challenges within the supply chain, inflation, failing infrastructure, climate, diversity and inclusion, trade, workforce, and many others. The USTR needs knowledgeable and experienced leaders at the helm to navigate through these challenges and implement bipartisan solutions.
NASDA supports the nomination of Doug McKalip and asks the Senate to quickly advance his nomination.
Sincerely,
Richard Ball
President
Ted McKinney
Chief Executive Officer
