Xochitl Torres Small
Jul 13, 2023
WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, the Senate voted 84-8 to approve Xochitl Torres Small as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary. She is replacing Jewel Bronaugh, who stepped down earlier this year, leaving the position vacant for a number of months.
Torres Small has served as the USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development since 2021. She is credited with helping implement more than $2 billion in funding for rural broadband access.
A former Member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District from 2019-2021, Torres Small held a seat on the House Committee on Agriculture.
Following her nomination by President Biden in February, Torres Small had support from a plethora of Congressional leaders, including Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), and Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR).
“I am pleased the Senate confirmed Ms. Torres Small to serve as USDA’s deputy secretary,” said Senator Boozman. “She has excelled in her leadership role as Undersecretary for Rural Development and is more than prepared to take on the responsibilities that come with being the top deputy at USDA. I congratulate Ms. Torres Small and stand ready to work with her to implement policies that will help our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities succeed.”
Earlier this spring, USA Rice joined 50 other agricultural trade associations on a support letter for Torres Small who in her new role as the USDA’s chief operating officer is tasked with improving implementation of USDA programs.