Allen F. Johnson ? originally from Long Grove in Scott County ? was tapped for this post in April by President Bush. Following today's committee approval, the nomination must be approved by the full Senate. That step could come as early as this week.
Grassley worked several years ago to create the special agricultural negotiator position which Johnson will hold. Grassley said it was needed to ensure that agriculture's interests were fully understood and represented by the office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
"Al Johnson is going to be a key figure over the next few years as the United States tries to negotiate down agricultural trade barriers. And the fact that President Bush selected such a talented and accomplished person like Al Johnson to take on this job shows that he understands the importance of trade to America's farmers," Grassley said. "Al Johnson's personal and professional background make him well-prepared to deal with the difficult challenges facing agriculture at the negotiating table. I'm glad to have his effective representation for farmers in Iowa and across the country."
Johnson served as Grassley's agricultural policy advisor from 1985 to 1987. Most recently, Johnson led the National Oilseed Processors Association in Washington, D.C.
Iowa ships $3.2 billion worth of agricultural products to foreign markets every year. "U.S. trade policies and the ability of the President and his negotiators to resolve trade disputes and reach new agreements have a dramatic impact on the family farmer's bottom line. Washington needs to work aggressively to open new markets for farm products both at home and abroad," Grassley said.