Peace Garden News

U.S. Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer have announced the appointment of Brad Thykeson and Tom Campbell to significant roles within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in North Dakota. These appointments come under the Trump administration's leadership.

Brad Thykeson will assume the role of North Dakota State Executive Director for the Farm Service Administration (FSA). Thykeson, a lifelong farmer, previously held this position during President Trump's first term. His past experience includes implementing FSA programs and overseeing policies that provided assistance to producers during times of market uncertainty and natural disasters.

"Brad Thykeson has a proven track record at FSA, having helped ensure farmers could navigate challenges new and old," stated Senators Hoeven and Cramer. "Between an increased cost of production, efforts to secure better trade deals, and an ongoing recovery from wildfires and harsh weather, our farmers need someone at the head of the state FSA office who knows our ag economy. Brad is the right person for the job, and we appreciate the administration for heeding our call to reinstate him to this critical position."

Tom Campbell has been appointed as North Dakota State Director for Rural Development (RD). Campbell brings his experience as a lifelong farmer and public servant to this role. He co-founded Campbell Farms, a potato production farm with multiple locations, and served in the North Dakota State Senate from 2013 to 2018.

"The RD State Director position calls for a person ready to serve the community on day one," noted Hoeven and Cramer. "Time and again, Tom has answered the call to be a public servant. From his service in the North Dakota Senate to a variety of leadership roles with both local and national agricultural groups, Tom has worked to help fellow producers manage agricultural policy. This long history of building relationships with producers in the state and advocating for policies that benefit farmers, ranchers, and rural communities will serve him well in the state director position."