Tom Vilsack

We're still going to be able to do 174,000 loans, but this is a situation where we're faced with, and you all are faced with, a defined and finite amount of money.

Challenges still remain for agriculture--especially for America's livestock and dairy producers.

When I became Secretary, I asked if I could send an e-mail to all of our employees. I was told I couldn't do that.

Net farm income remains strong, and the farm debt-to-asset ratio is at a record low today.

The only way we're going to do that is by embracing science and investing in science.

I believe this budget basically lays a strong foundation for doing that.

I think we're finally going to see the results of MIDAS.

It is important, I think, for this country to have a different definition and understanding of what constitutes rural.

My view of this is that we need a consistent definition.

The resilience of American farmers and ranchers has helped to support 1-in-12 U.S. jobs.

I think in a bipartisan way Republicans and Democrats should agree that when it comes to foreign food aid, that's a program we shouldn't cut.

I would rather help people and create a positive feeling toward our country versus responding to chaos when chaos erupts.

Let me assure you that it is a priority of mine. The local and regional food system is an important component of rebuilding the rural economy, and it will continue.

We believe it is appropriate and necessary for us to modernize our inspection process to really focus attention and time on the areas where we know pathogen risks are greatest.

I personally, as you can tell, don't believe these riders were a good idea, I think they should be corrected.

We respect the request, but I would point out that in addition to sequester, Congress also added an additional 2.7 percent cut to this budget.

We feel we are on solid ground. We feel that there is adequate factual and legal basis for us doing this.

It is incumbent upon us to continue to be focused on integrity.

I requested that audit, personally requested that audit, and as a result am personally assured by the team that is now engaged at OAO that those audit recommendations will be followed.

This is one of those issues that you are confronting where you are trying to balance a variety of needs and requirements.

Well, I think it is important to point out, if it is an economic issue, that schools, if they comply with these regulations, are entitled to additional reimbursement of 6 cents a meal.

the more opportunity in research that we can do, the better, as far as I am concerned, and that is why, you know, we are making the case that we need to invest more in research.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack has acknowledged the Oak Flat area as a 'special place' that should be protected from harm 'for future generations.'

The problem is, we won't be able to go quite a bit further.

So if you are asking the question today, obviously we are taking steps to improve our meals and providing more fruits and vegetables, less sodium, less sugar, less fat, more whole grains and low-fat dairy.