Stephen Vaden, a distinguished judge on the Court of International Trade who previously served as the general counsel for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) during President Donald Trump’s first administration, has been appointed as the department’s deputy secretary. This significant appointment comes after Vaden’s successful tenure as general counsel at USDA, where he achieved notable victories before the United States Supreme Court, spearheaded the relocation and reorganization of key agencies within the Department to better serve Rural America, and played a pivotal role in substantial regulatory reform initiatives.

In his statement announcing Vaden’s appointment, President Trump highlighted Vaden’s instrumental role in overseeing the implementation of the 2018 farm bill, as well as his leadership in developing regulations surrounding the legalization of industrial hemp and the regulation of bioengineered crops. Vaden’s deep-rooted commitment to agriculture is further exemplified by his involvement in managing the family farm in Union City, Tennessee, where he resides.

Vaden’s confirmation as general counsel by the Senate in November 2018 underscored his legal acumen and expertise. Prior to his role at USDA, Vaden held positions at esteemed Washington law firms, Jones Day and Patton Boggs. His educational background includes a law degree from Yale University and a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University, showcasing his dedication to excellence and his commitment to public service.

President Trump’s recent appointments within USDA have further solidified the administration’s focus on agriculture and rural development. Alongside Vaden’s selection as deputy secretary, Brooke Rollins, president of the America First Policy Institute and a former White House adviser, was named as the agriculture secretary. Rollins, who also holds a law degree, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role within USDA.

Currently serving as the deputy secretary under Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack is Xochitl Torres Small, a dedicated public servant committed to advancing agricultural policies and initiatives. Rollins welcomed Vaden’s appointment, emphasizing his impressive credentials and his profound understanding of the critical role that American agriculture plays in shaping the nation’s greatness. As Lincoln famously stated, USDA is “The People’s Department,” and Vaden’s appointment as deputy secretary signifies a commitment to running the department in a manner that truly serves the American people.

Vaden’s decision to transition from his lifelong appointment as a judge on the Court of International Trade to serve as the next deputy secretary of USDA underscores his unwavering dedication to public service and his profound appreciation for the importance of agriculture in the fabric of American society. His extensive legal background, coupled with his hands-on experience in managing a family farm, uniquely position him to lead USDA in addressing the diverse challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural sector.

In conclusion, the appointment of Stephen Vaden as the deputy secretary of USDA represents a significant step towards advancing the department’s mission of supporting American agriculture, rural development, and food security. With his proven track record of legal excellence, strategic leadership, and deep-rooted commitment to rural America, Vaden is poised to make a lasting impact in his new role. For more news and updates on agricultural policies and initiatives, visit www.Agri-Pulse.com.