“Anne Hazlett brings a depth of experience on rural development issues that should benefit American farmers and ranchers and strengthen the rural communities they call home. Her background in rural issues in Indiana and her background in agricultural policy make her an ideal candidate to lead USDA’s effort to grow our rural economies.

“As Congress weighs in on Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue’s proposal to reorganize USDA, we commend him for putting an experienced hand on his team as assistant to the secretary for rural development. As the proposed reorganization moves forward, it is heartening to know Ms. Hazlett will have an open door and will report directly to the secretary as she carries out this crucial responsibility of advancing policies and programs to serve rural America.

“We are confident that this announcement on one of the first key decisions in moving his proposal forward highlights the careful thought Secretary Perdue is applying to the other important changes to USDA’s structure.”