New USDA leaders confirmed amid Senate’s party-line votes

Senate confirms three key Agriculture Department leaders in party-line votes

The Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee has confirmed Mindy Brashears and John Walk to key posts at the Agriculture Department. Stella Yvette Herrell, the former representative of New Mexico, was also approved as assistant secretary for congressional relations. The votes were largely along party lines.

Mindy Brashears, a professor of food safety and public health, was approved to head the Food Safety and Inspection Service by a narrow 12-11 vote. She is expected to bring her expertise to the role, which oversees the safety of the nation's food supply.

John Walk, a certified public accountant, was also confirmed as inspector general on the same 12-11 party-line vote. He will provide independent oversight of the department's programs and operations.

Stella Yvette Herrell, who was succeeded by Gabe Vasquez in the 2022 elections, was approved as assistant secretary for congressional relations. She won the vote 13-10, with Sen. Ben Ray Luján crossing the aisle to support her. Herrell promised ranking Democrat Amy Klobuchar faster responses to inquiries, which could help smooth relations between the committee and the Trump administration on a USDA reorganization.

The confirmations of Brashears, Walk, and Herrell bring important expertise and experience to the Agriculture Department. Their roles will be crucial in ensuring the safety of the nation's food supply, providing independent oversight, and facilitating communication with Congress.