The U.S. agriculture community is responding positively to the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Tyler Clarkson as General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Clarkson’s appointment, finalized last week, marks a return to a familiar leadership role for the seasoned legal expert who previously served at USDA during the first Trump administration.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins praised the confirmation, stating, “Tyler Clarkson is a proven legal mind and a true champion for America’s farmers and ranchers. From his service as Acting General Counsel during the first Trump Administration to his deep experience in regulatory affairs, Tyler understands how to cut red tape and deliver results for rural America. I am proud to welcome him back to USDA, where he will serve a critical role in implementing USDA’s farmer first reorganization, end lawfare against innocent Americans, and ensure American agriculture will be strong, secure, and resilient. Tyler has shown proven leadership that will help us drive forward President Trump’s America First agenda.”
Clarkson’s return is seen as a major asset in the department’s renewed effort to streamline regulation, reduce legal burdens, and restore accountability in agricultural policy. His background includes serving as Deputy General Counsel, Principal Deputy General Counsel, and Acting General Counsel at USDA. Most recently, he worked as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Ginkgo Bioworks.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the confirmation. Ethan Lane, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, said, “U.S. cattle producers congratulate Tyler Clarkson on his Senate confirmation and are excited to have him providing legal counsel to Secretary Brooke Rollins as she continues to cut burdensome, government red tape. Clarkson’s experience serving in USDA’s Office of the General Counsel in the first Trump administration and expertise on regulatory issues makes him supremely qualified to serve in this role. We also thank the Senate for their work to swiftly confirm more key nominees that will support the work of farmers and ranchers across the country.”
Senator John Hoeven of North Dakota also expressed support, saying, “Tyler Clarkson’s experience as USDA Deputy General Counsel and in regulatory affairs makes him well-qualified to serve as [the President’s] pick for [USDA] General Counsel. His leadership will help strengthen agricultural policy and support our farmers across the country.”
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet. Agriculture Community Reacts to Tyler Clarkson’s Senate Confirmation
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