The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has recently made significant additions to its senior staff, including Kailee Tkacz Buller, Jennifer Tiller, and Audra Weeks, with the aim of advancing President Trump’s America First agenda.

Kailee Tkacz Buller, who has been serving as the president and CEO of the National Oilseed Processors Association since 2023, has been appointed as the chief of staff for USDA Secretary-nominee Brooke Rollins. Tkacz Buller brings a wealth of experience from her previous positions within the USDA during the first Trump administration, where she served as chief of staff to then-Deputy Secretary Stephen Censky and played key roles in biofuels and congressional relations.

Devin Mogler, the senior vice president for investor relations at Green Plains Inc., will succeed Tkacz Buller at NOPA, ensuring a smooth transition within the organization.

Jennifer Tiller, who previously served as the deputy chief of staff for the Republican staff on the House Agriculture Committee, has been appointed as the chief of staff to Deputy Agriculture Secretary-nominee Stephen Vaden. Tiller will also serve as a senior adviser to the Secretary for food, nutrition, and consumer services, leveraging her expertise in nutrition assistance programs.

Preston Parry, a staff member at the America First Policy Institute, will assume the role of deputy chief of staff for Brooke Rollins. Parry’s extensive experience working with Rollins at both the White House Domestic Policy Council and AFPI makes him a valuable addition to the team.

Audra Weeks, another key appointment, will serve as the deputy director of communications within the USDA. Weeks brings a diverse background in communications, having previously worked as a deputy press secretary during the first Trump administration and later on Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign.

Ralph Linden, a former USDA career staff member, is returning to the department as the principal deputy general counsel. Linden’s prior experience within the USDA, specifically in the Commodity Credit Corporation and international affairs, makes him well-suited for this role.

Dominic Restuccia has been appointed as the department’s White House liaison, bringing with him a background in legislative assistance and political campaign advisory work. Restuccia’s experience with Senator Mike Lee and the Trump 47 Transition Team will be invaluable in his new position.

These recent appointments reflect the USDA’s commitment to implementing President Trump’s America First agenda and ensuring the effective operation of the department. For more updates and news regarding the USDA and agriculture, visit www.Agri-Pulse.com.