WASHINGTON — Former Georgia governor George Ervin “Sonny” Perdue III is President-elect Donald Trump’s selection to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture as the Secretary of Agriculture. A former veterinarian with roots in Georgia agriculture, Mr. Perdue’s nomination was met with praise by a number of industry groups.
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| Mike Brown, president of the National Chicken Council |
“Governor Perdue has a strong record as two-term chief executive of Georgia and is acquainted with a wide array of agriculture commodities, from chicken and peanuts to cotton and timber,” said Mike Brown, president of the National Chicken Council. “As a veterinarian, agribusiness owner and a governor who established an agricultural advisory committee in Georgia, he understands and appreciates the importance of American agriculture both here and abroad. He is a welcome choice from the ‘Broiler belt.’
“We hope he is confirmed expeditiously so we can begin work with the department on the many issues of importance to chicken producers.”
Mr. Perdue served as governor of Georgia from 2003 to 2011. During his tenure he was known for his focus on reforming Georgia’s budget and improving the graduation rates of students in the state. He received a doctorate in veterinary medicine in 1971 from the University of Georgia. After serving in the military he went on to lead businesses in agribusiness and transportation.
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| Michael Dykes, president and c.e.o. of the International Dairy Foods Association |
