SW New Mexico News

On July 11, 2023, the United State Senate confirmed former U.S. Representative Xochitl Torres Small to be Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. During the nomination process, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) wrote a letter in support of Torres Small’s nomination, and ultimately in the process, Torres Small received strong bipartisan support from the Senate.

Vasquez released the following statement after Torres Small’s confirmation:

“With Senate confirmation, our country and New Mexico stand to gain from Xochitl Torres Small’s new role as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture,” said Vasquez. “As Under Secretary of Rural Development for the Department of Agriculture, Xochitl Torres Small has demonstrated an extensive understanding and remarkable effectiveness in serving rural communities across the nation. Torres Small’s experience as a legislator in New Mexico’s second district and her unique work experience will support our farmers, ranchers, farm workers and rural communities. She will be a key asset to our district and help implement the new Farm Bill.”

Torres Small began her work in New Mexico, where she served as a field organizer in Colonias located in southern New Mexico. In Congress, she proudly represented New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District and while in office, served on the House Agriculture Committee. Agriculture is a crucial sector of New Mexico’s and the nation’s economy. New Mexico’s contribution to the nation’s food system includes staple crops like Hatch green chile, white and yellow onions, cotton, pecans and important dairy products.

Original source can be found here.