The American Feed Industry Association released the following statement in response to former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue\'s confirmation as secretary of agriculture: 

\"The American Feed Industry Association applauds the Senate\'s decision to confirm Sonny Perdue as secretary of agriculture. We expect Sec. Perdue\'s government and agriculture experience to align with the industry\'s initiatives, and plan to provide our industry\'s input and support on various issues including trade and the impending farm bill.

\"During the hearings, Sec. Perdue committed himself to working diligently with the Trump administration and the agricultural industry to ensure preservation of current trade benefits and creation of new trade opportunities in key agricultural markets. He also pledged to protect rural farm programs and ensure that farmers have adequate access to labor. These items are of great importance to our members. 

\"The feed industry looks forward to working closely with Sec. Perdue, assisting him and his staff on animal food-related topics, and how our industry relates to other agriculture sectors and to consumers.\"