Mar 27, 2021
In the second part of our special two-part series, the Biden-Harris Rural Vision, Michelle talks with Thomas J. Vilsack, the 32nd United States Secretary of Agriculture who has returned to the role he served for eight years under President Barack Obama. Secretary Vilsack highlights the American Rescue Plan sections that benefit rural residents, including increasing food assistance, extending broadband access, strengthening rural hospital infrastructure, and providing housing assistance. Secretary Vilsack discusses the new USDA Equity Commission, which identifies ways for the department to support historically underserved groups, such as farmers of color. Looking forward, Vilsack says, the USDA will work to make the food system more resilient and to improve nutrition in general for rural Americans.