NCC Congratulates Bronaugh on Confirmation

MEMPHIS – The National Cotton Council welcomed the Senate’s confirmation of Dr. Jewel Bronaugh as USDA’s Deputy Secretary of Agriculture.

NCC Chairman Kent Fountain, a Georgia cotton producer and ginner, said the U.S. cotton industry congratulates Dr. Bronaugh and looks forward to working with her and other USDA senior leadership as they strive to carry out efficient and effective administration of food and agricultural programs.

Fountain said the NCC had joined with numerous other agriculture organizations on a letter supporting Bronaugh’s nomination which noted, “Our nation is facing considerable challenges with regard to pandemic response, failing infrastructure, climate, diversity and inclusion, trade, immigration, and many others. The USDA needs knowledgeable and experienced leaders at the helm to navigate through these challenges and to implement bipartisan solutions.”

Dr. Bronaugh’s career includes serving as a Cooperative Extension Specialist, a university dean, a USDA-Farm Service Agency State Executive Director, and most recently as the 16th Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Phillip Edwards, III, of Smithfield, Va., who is past president of the Virginia Cotton Producers Association, said, “Dr. Bronaugh has a deep understanding and extensive experience across a range of agricultural issues. She will provide a valuable perspective to help the Department as it addresses the challenges and opportunities facing America’s farmers and agricultural stakeholders.”

As the central organization for the U.S. cotton industry, the Memphis-based NCC serves as the unifying force in working with policymakers to ensure cotton's interests are heard. The NCC’s mission is ensuring the industry’s seven segments’ ability to compete effectively and profitably in the raw cotton, oilseed and U.S.-manufactured product markets at home and abroad.