ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 29, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) welcomes the Senate Finance Committee’s consideration of Dr. Julie Callahan’s nomination to serve as Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. NGFA is encouraged to see the confirmation process moving forward for this critical position and views today’s hearing as an important step toward ensuring strong U.S. leadership on agricultural trade. Dr. Callahan’s deep expertise and proven leadership in promoting U.S. agricultural exports make her exceptionally well-suited to represent America’s farmers, agribusinesses, and exporters on the global stage.

“Dr. Callahan is the perfect person at this critical juncture,” said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. “With global markets evolving rapidly and agricultural trade facing growing challenges, her experience and steady leadership will strengthen America’s position abroad. She is an excellent choice, and we encourage the Senate to swiftly advance her nomination to confirmation.”

NGFA emphasized that confirming Dr. Callahan will ensure U.S. agriculture has a seasoned advocate to expand market access, remove trade barriers, and reinforce fair, science-based standards in global markets. Her confirmation would provide critical continuity and leadership for the nation’s grain, feed, and export sectors at a pivotal time for U.S. trade policy.

In a letter sent to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) last month, NGFA and other agricultural groups emphasized Dr. Callahan’s deep experience in global agricultural trade and her proven record of advocating for U.S. farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and rural communities.

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