Senate confirms Drake University grad Darci Vetter as Chief Ag Negotiator

by | Jul 11, 2014 | Audio, News

WASHINGTON – Since graduating from Drake University in 1996 with a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, newly minted Chief Agricultural Trade Negotiator Darci Vetter has only moved upward.

On Wednesday, the Senate confirmed Vetter in her new role; before that, Vetter worked in the Department of Agriculture as Deputy Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services.

Vetter was nominated to the role by President Obama in January; he cited her experience in agriculture, trade and diplomacy across several branches of federal government, including the Department of State and and as an international trade adviser on the Senate Finance Committee.

U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman welcomed the vote, stating that Vetter’s ?expertise and experience will make her a formidable advocate” for the agricultural community.

From the early to mid-2000s, Vetter worked as both the director for sustainable development and director of agricultural affairs within USTR.

American Soybean Association President and Iowa farmer Ray Gaesser also applauded the confirmation, stating his conviction that Vetter will provide a strong voice for American soybean farmers at the highest level.

American Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman called the Senate approval a “win” for American agriculture, and described Vetter as an exceptional choice.

Stallman further stated that “Vetter?s most recent experience at USDA provided her with direct exposure to the workings of many of the critical programs related to trade currently offered by the federal government and the array of agricultural sectors involved in expanding U.S. farm and ranch exports.