ARLINGTON, VA -- The Meat Institute today released the following statement regarding the Senate confirmation of Judge Stephen Vaden to be Deputy Secretary of Agriculture:

“Judge Vaden’s experience, service, expertise and dedication to agriculture make him highly qualified to help lead the Department,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “His knowledge of trade issues is especially important as we look to expand market access for meat and poultry and his deep understating of regulatory issues will ensure the entire supply chain is promoted and protected. We look forward to continuing our work with Judge Vaden in his new role.”

The Senate approved his nomination with a vote of 51-44.

About the Meat Institute

The Meat Institute represents the full community of people and companies who make the majority of meat American families rely on every day. The Meat Institute’s hands-on regulatory and technical expertise, proactive advocacy, unique convening power, collaboration within and beyond animal agriculture, and sector-leading continuous improvement initiatives drive relationships and resources that ensure meat continues to be a vital, trusted pillar of healthy diets and thriving communities for generations to come. To learn more, visit: MeatInstitute.org.