U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, expressed her support for the nominations of Dr. Basil Ivanhoe Gooden and Summer K. Mersinger during a hearing. Dr. Gooden has been nominated to be the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development, while Commissioner Mersinger has been nominated for a second term as a Commissioner of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
Stabenow emphasized the nominees' understanding of the needs of farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, as both of them were raised on farms themselves. She stated that her three goals for the Farm Bill are to keep farmers farming, keep families fed, and keep rural communities strong, and the role of Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development is crucial in achieving these goals.
The Chairwoman acknowledged the challenges faced by rural communities due to the climate crisis and changing economy. She expressed confidence in Dr. Gooden's ability to address these challenges, highlighting his extensive experience. Dr. Gooden currently serves as the Director of State Operations for USDA Rural Development and has previously held key positions in agriculture and forestry in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Stabenow also noted that Dr. Gooden's personal connection to rural America, as a cattle farm owner and operator, further strengthens his understanding of the needs of rural communities.
Turning her attention to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Stabenow emphasized the vital role it plays in the economy by stabilizing costs for food and energy. She emphasized the need for the CFTC to safeguard market integrity and ensure fair financial markets for all customers. Stabenow also highlighted the importance of the derivatives markets in helping farmers and producers manage their business risks, especially in the face of extreme weather events and the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices.
Chairwoman Stabenow welcomed back Commissioner Mersinger, recognizing her deep understanding of agricultural commodities as the backbone of the economy. She praised Mersinger's experience as the sponsor of the CFTC's Energy and Environmental Markets Advisory Committee, where she engages with energy producers and consumers to address the challenges of modernizing the power grid and transitioning to clean and renewable resources. Stabenow expressed confidence in Commissioner Mersinger's ability to lead the CFTC effectively.
In conclusion, Chairwoman Stabenow affirmed that both Dr. Gooden and Commissioner Mersinger are highly qualified for their respective roles. She expressed her support for their nominations and her eagerness to work closely with them once they are confirmed.
The hearing concluded with Chairwoman Stabenow inviting Ranking Member Boozman to make any opening remarks he wished to offer.
Click this link to access more information: https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/newsroom/dem/press/release/chairwoman-stabenow-statement-at-nominations-hearing-for-dr-basil-ivanhoe-gooden-and-summer-k-mersinger
