CHC Endorses Xochitl Torres Small Nomination as USDA Deputy Secretary

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) sent a letter to the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture in support of the nomination of Xochitl Torres Small to serve as the next Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary.

“During her time in Congress, Representative Torres Small worked eagerly to expand rural communities’ accessibility to resources and everyday needs. The CHC will continue advocating for more Latino representation at all levels of government to ensure that our communities have a seat at the table for key discussions and are part of making the decisions that impact our communities. We know Xochitl will continue her great work at USDA if she is confirmed as Deputy Secretary,” said CHC Chair Nanette Barragán and Deputy Chair Adriano Espaillat.

CHC members reiterated their endorsement for Torres Small citing her role as Under Secretary for Rural Development for USDA and her experience as a representative for New Mexico when she became the first woman and person of color to represent the district.

“The CHC commends your leadership on the Committee and your collective development of sensible regulations and public policies, including those that account for the disproportionately negative impact that governmental programs in the environmental, public health, and rural development have historically had on Latino communities. Likewise, our Caucus firmly believes that Torres Small’s experience and expertise in climate, environmental, rural development, and water and natural resources law make her the most experienced, trusted, and capable candidate to lead USDA,” read the letter signed by 32 CHC members.

###