The U.S. agricultural community is welcoming a major development in trade leadership. Last week, the U.S. Senate confirmed Luke Lindberg as Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs—a move being hailed as a significant step in realigning America’s global trade strategy to favor U.S. farmers, ranchers, and producers.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins praised the confirmation, stating, “President Trump is reorienting our global trade relationships to put America First. Over the last four years, our trade agenda favored foreign competitors over America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers. This led to a $50 billion agricultural trade deficit, when under President Trump we had a surplus. Our farmers, ranchers and producers feed, clothe and fuel the world, and they deserve a strong advocate in every trade negotiation and in every market promotion. We are thrilled to have Luke join our team and I have full faith that his drive and deep experience will ensure we not only defend our producers, but also open new doors to global trade. At USDA we are ensuring American agriculture will be strong, secure, and resilient by safeguarding our food supply, strengthening critical infrastructure, and defending U.S. agricultural innovation from foreign adversaries. Luke will be critical to this core mission”
Lindberg, who most recently led South Dakota Trade and previously served as Chief of Staff and Chief Strategy Officer at the Export-Import Bank under the Trump administration, is expected to bring a results-driven approach to expanding agricultural exports and restoring trade balance.
Industry leaders quickly voiced their support. U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom said, “USMEF applauds the U.S. Senate for confirming Luke Lindberg with a strong showing of bipartisan support. This is a critical time for agricultural trade and Mr. Lindberg brings great passion and extensive experience to this role. He has a proven track record as a champion for U.S. agriculture and USMEF looks forward to working with him to expand global demand for U.S. red meat.”
Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman of Arkansas added, “I congratulate Luke Lindberg on his confirmation. He will be a tireless advocate for restoring American agriculture’s global competitiveness and delivering results for producers across the country. I look forward to working with Under Secretary Lindberg as we continue to support the success of rural America and strengthen our agricultural economy.”
With a renewed focus on strengthening rural America and enhancing U.S. agricultural exports, Lindberg’s confirmation marks a strategic shift. Stakeholders across the agriculture sector are optimistic that his leadership will drive new market access, ensure fair trade practices, and create long-term opportunities for American producers.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet. Agriculture Community Reacts To Confirmation of Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs
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