Vilsack praises new USDA deputy secretary

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack praised the recent confirmation of Xochitl Torres Small as USDA deputy secretary.

"Xochitl Torres Small has dedicated her career to serving the agriculture industry and the American people, and I have witnessed her lead with energy, authenticity and personal investment that I know will leave an impact on USDA for years to come,” Vilsack said in a news release. “As the granddaughter of migrant farm workers, Xochitl experienced firsthand the challenges that many producers and rural communities face day in and day out.”

Her experience informs her leadership, Vilsack said.

“At this critical time when USDA and the Biden-Harris Administration are laser-focused on mobilizing historic investments to rebuild our economy and secure healthier, more vibrant communities for future generations, I am grateful to have Xochitl’s partnership at the helm of the People’s Department,” Vilsack said in the release. “She has time and again met the moment with a collaborative approach and a can-do spirit, and I applaud Congress for confirming her as USDA’s next Deputy Secretary.”     

Since October 2021, Torres Small has served as undersecretary for rural development at USDA. Effective July 14, Rural Development Chief Operating Officer Roger Glendenning will serve as acting undersecretary.

Prior to joining USDA, Torres Small was a U.S. representative in New Mexico. She was the first woman and first person of color to represent the state’s second congressional district, according to the release.