Many of agriculture’s leading groups and officials are reacting positively to the expected nomination of Doug McKalip to be the chief agricultural negotiator with the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. 

McKalip has been a key agriculture policy official for three decades, and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says that makes him a great choice for the post. 

The U.S. Grains Council says McKalip will be able to use his strong background in farm and trade policy and his knowledge of biotechnology to advance U.S. global trade priorities. 

American Soybean Association CEO Stephen Censky says, “Doug understands the challenges facing agriculture, and we’re glad to have his expertise added to the USTR team.” 

Brian Kuehl of Farmers for Free Trade says McKalip is “well prepared for fighting for the needs of our nation’s farm and food interests.” 

The National Corn Growers Association is also pleased to see this nomination in place, as is the National Milk Producers Federation.

(Story Courtesy of the NAFB News Service)