The following is a letter sent to Congress in support of Judge Vadens nomination as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. To view the full letter, click on the file below.
Dear Chairman Boozman and Ranking Member Klobuchar:
We write to express our strong support for the nomination of Stephen Alexander Vaden as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. As representatives of farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, cooperatives, state departments of agriculture, processors, growers, and conservationists, we believe that Judge Vaden’s extensive experience and deep-rooted commitment to American agriculture make him exceptionally well- qualified to serve in this critical leadership role at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
A native of Union City, Tennessee, Judge Vaden grew up working with his father on his family’s diversified row crop farm, instilling in him a lifelong passion for agriculture. This passion has guided his impressive career, which spans agriculture, law, and public service. His academic credentials include a law degree from Yale University, and his professional background includes time at two prominent law firms and two federal clerkships.
Judge Vaden has already demonstrated outstanding leadership within USDA. During his tenure as General Counsel from 2017 to 2020, he supervised over 250 legal professionals across 13 offices, providing guidance on matters vital to the agricultural community. His accomplishments included successfully litigating two cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, implementing key provisions of the 2018 farm bill, and leading the development of critical regulations for the sale of hemp and bioengineered product labeling.
Currently serving as a judge on the United States Court of International Trade, Judge Vaden brings a unique understanding of agriculture’s role in international markets. His work addressing federal trade issues, including those involving agricultural commodities, will be indispensable as USDA continues to navigate global trade challenges and create a level playing field and expanded opportunities for U.S. farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses.
Judge Vaden’s qualifications are further underscored by his prior Senate confirmations— both as General Counsel for USDA and as a federal judge.
We are confident that Judge Vaden’s leadership alongside Secretary Brooke Rollins will ensure USDA remains a strong advocate for farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and rural communities. His deep understanding of the agricultural economy, regulatory landscape, and global trade dynamics will be instrumental as the department works to address challenges such as stabilizing the farm economy, strengthening supply chains, and implementing a new farm bill.
We urge your committee and the entire United States Senate to act swiftly to confirm Judge Stephen Vaden as the next Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. His leadership, experience, and dedication to American agriculture will make a profound impact on the success of our nation’s farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and rural communities.
Thank you for your consideration and your continued support of American agriculture.
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