President Biden nominates Xochitl Torres Small as USDA deputy secretary

Feb 15, 2023

Xochitl Torres Small could replace Jewel Bronaugh

By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com

President Biden has revealed who he wants to replace Dr. Jewel Bronaugh as the second in command within the United States Department of Agriculture.

On Feb. 15, the president announced Xochitl Torres Small, who’s been the under secretary for rural development since 2021, to be his deputy secretary nominee.

“The granddaughter of farmworkers, Torres Small grew up in the borderlands of New Mexico,” the president’s nomination says. She has worked as a Field Representative for Senator Tom Udall (D-NM), clerked for United States District Court Judge Robert C. Brack, and served as an attorney practicing water and natural resources law.

Torres Small’s nomination comes after Dr. Bronaugh announced her resignation in January to spend more time with her family.

Torres Small first entered politics in 2018, winning the seat in New Mexico’s 2^nd congressional district.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack is pleased with the president’s choice.

Torres Small has always supported rural communities, and stepping into the role as deputy secretary of the USDA will allow that work to continue, he said.

“Her expertise will further USDA’s mission to advance equity and opportunity in and for rural America, and USDA’s commitment to build an organization invested in the success of its workforce and the customers we serve,” he said in a statement.

Torres Small will require Senate confirmation before assuming the position.

Until that happens, and after Dr. Bronaugh officially resigns, Kevin Shea, administrator of the Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service, will serve as acting deputy secretary.

Video: California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Meet Willy: California Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year!

We’re excited to introduce Willy, a miniature long-haired dachshund with a big heart and even bigger courage, and the Grand Prize winner of this year’s Farm Dog of the Year Contest!

Willy may be small, but he’s become an indispensable partner on owner Marshal Hagedorn’s forestry and cattle operations in Shasta, Tehama, and Siskiyou counties. Adopted in 2023, he quickly found his place on the ranch, helping manage critters, tagging along for long days in the woods, and offering unwavering companionship during demanding logging work.

Willy has even taken naturally to moving cattle, surprising calves (and more than a few full-grown cows!) with his burst of energy from the tall grass. As Marshal put it: “He goes with me everywhere every single day.”

Congratulations to Willy and his family, a perfect example of how every good farm dog, no matter the size, helps keep California agriculture running strong.