Luke Lindberg has been confirmed as USDA’s Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs by a vote of 77-18 vote Saturday night by the U.S. Senate.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins issued the following statement following Lindberg’s confirmation:
“President Trump is reorienting our global trade relationships to put America First. Over the last four years, our trade agenda favored foreign competitors over America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers. This led to a $50 billion agricultural trade deficit, when under President Trump we had a surplus. Our farmers, ranchers and producers feed, clothe and fuel the world, and they deserve a strong advocate in every trade negotiation and in every market promotion.
“We are thrilled to have Luke join our team and I have full faith that his drive and deep experience will ensure we not only defend our producers, but also open new doors to global trade. At USDA we are ensuring American agriculture will be strong, secure, and resilient by safeguarding our food supply, strengthening critical infrastructure, and defending U.S. agricultural innovation from foreign adversaries. Luke will be critical to this core mission.”
Lindberg previously served as Chief of Staff and Chief Strategy Officer at the Export-Import Bank of the United States during President Trump’s first term. Most recently, he led South Dakota Trade, a public–private partnership focused on expanding international market access for regional exporters.
Lindberg holds degrees in Government & Politics, Public Policy, and Business Administration from the University of Maryland.
Other USDA nominees who are still awaiting a confirmation vote by the Senate include:
- Richard Fordyce as Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation
- Michael Boren as Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment
- Dudley Hoskins as Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs
- Scott Hutchins as Undersecretary for Research, Education, and Economics
Source: USDA