Alexis Taylor nominated for USDA role

WASHINGTON — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack intends to nominate Alexis Taylor to serve as under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Alexis Taylor has dedicated her life to public service,” Vilsack said. “She has not only spent her career serving the American people through her work in U.S. agricultural and trade policy, but also as a veteran of the U.S. Army.”

Taylor currently serves as the director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture, a position she was appointed to in December 2016.

She received her bachelor’s degree in political science and minor in communications from Iowa State University.

Ted McKinney, CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, commended Taylor for her nomination.

“I’ve known Alexis from her previous time served at USDA and more recently as she served as a NASDA member from Oregon,” McKinney said.

“From these experiences, I offer my enthusiastic endorsement for her candidacy. We know Director Taylor’s passion for seeking market opportunities for American farmers, ranchers and food producers of all types.

“Her previous experience at USDA, her character and her deep understanding of how regulations across the globe matter for individuals in our communities will benefit all Americans.”

McKinney was the first USDA under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs from 2017-2021.

In an interview, NASDA leaders asked Taylor, “In seven words or less, what is some advice you would offer your fellow agriculturalists?”

Taylor responded, “Challenge yourself and others to think differently.”