State agriculture officials celebrate U.S. Senate confirmation of Taylor for Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs

The U.S. Senate has confirmed former Oregon Department of Agriculture Director Alexis Taylor for Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. National Association of State Departments of Agriculture CEO Ted McKinney released the following statement regarding her confirmation.

“Alexis will continue to lead U.S. agriculture to further heights in her new role as she advocates for opportunities to extend the reach of American grown products around the world,” McKinney said. “Alexis brings experience, character and a deep understanding of how regulations across the globe matter for individuals in local communities.”

McKinney also thanked the U.S. Senate for confirming Under Secretary Taylor and filling this valuable position. “Alexis’ work as Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs is needed now more than ever as increasing trade is an important element to alleviating supply chain challenges and curbing inflation. We know her efforts are sure to have a meaningful impact on consumers and families nationwide.”

In a previous letter of support for Under Secretary Taylor, NASDA CEO Ted McKinney shared that she had served as Director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture since 2016. While there, she also devoted her time and attention to expanding market opportunities not only for Oregonians but for farmers and ranchers across the country, and she has been particularly instrumental in developing opportunities for female food and beverage entrepreneurs to reach new markets for their products.

Under Secretary Taylor served on the 2020-2021 NASDA Board of Directors sharpening states’ impact on federal agricultural policy. While a NASDA member, she also served on the NASDA Foundation Board from 2018-2022, developing and discovering new resources for state agriculture departments to better serve constituents.