    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2007, Book II)]
    [October 31, 2007]
    [Pages 1405-1406]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on the Nomination of Edward T. Schafer To Be Secretary of Agriculture
    October 31, 2007

        The President. Thank you all. Be seated. Good afternoon. I'm proud
    to announce my nomination of Ed Schafer to be the next Secretary of the
    Agriculture.
        The Secretary of Agriculture heads a Cabinet Department of more than
    100,000 employees. I rely on the Secretary to provide sound advice on
    issues ranging from our Nation's farm economy and food supply to
    international trade and conservation programs. To carry out these
    responsibilities, the Secretary of Agriculture needs to be someone who
    understands the challenges facing America's farmers, ranchers, and
    consumers.
        Ed Schafer is the right choice to fill this post. He was a leader on
    agricultural issues during his 8 years as the Governor of North Dakota.
    He worked to open new markets for North Dakota farmers and ranchers by
    expanding trade with China. He oversaw the development of the State's
    agricultural biofuels industry. He helped families recover from natural
    disasters, including drought, fires, and floods. And he pioneered
    innovative programs to increase economic opportunity in rural
    communities.
        Ed also has extensive management experience in the private sector.
    Before running for public office, he was the president of the family-
    owned business that his dad started. He's also launched a number of
    entrepreneurial ventures on his own. At every stage of his career, Ed
    has shown wisdom, foresight, and creativity. Those same qualities will
    make him a valuable

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    member of my Cabinet, and they will make him a trusted friend to
    America's farmers and ranchers.
        Ed's passion for agriculture has deep roots. His maternal
    grandparents were Danish immigrants who worked as farmers on the plains
    of North Dakota. Ed has always kept their story close to his heart. And
    they'd be proud to see their grandson rise to become our Nation's top
    agriculture official.
        In his new job, Ed will carry on the work of another fine public
    servant, Mike Johanns. Mike became Secretary of
    Agriculture at the beginning of my second term. During his time in
    office, he helped open new markets for trade, promoted renewable fuels
    and conservation, and provided timely assistance to our farmers and
    ranchers devastated by natural disasters. Mike leaves a legacy of
    integrity and dedication. And Laura and I wish
    Mike and his wife Stephanie all the best
    on their return to Nebraska.
        I also thank my friend Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Chuck
    Conner for serving as Acting Secretary
    during this time of transition. Chuck grew up on a family farm in
    Indiana. He has a deep knowledge of agricultural issues. He's done an
    outstanding job. Appreciate the fact that you'll remain as Acting
    Secretary until the Senate confirms Ed as Mike Johanns's permanent replacement. And thank you for joining us
    today.
        Following Mike is not going to be easy, but
    Ed Schafer is up to the challenge. With Ed's leadership, we will work
    with Congress to pass a farm bill that provides farmers with a safety
    net, protects our lands and the environment, and spends Federal tax
    dollars wisely. Ed will also join other members of my administration to
    continue leveling the playing field for America's farm products by
    concluding the Doha round of trade negotiations. And he and I will
    continue to work hard to open up new markets for American beef.
        As Ed takes on these new challenges, he will rely on the support of
    his caring family. Ed is blessed with a wonderful wife, Nancy, who came from North Dakota today. He is also
    blessed with four
    children and eight
    grandchildren. Their love will give Ed the strength to serve our country
    in his new capacity.
        I urge the Senate to swiftly confirm Ed Schafer as the 29th
    Secretary of Agriculture. I look forward to having this good and decent
    man as a member of my Cabinet. Congratulations.

    [At this point, Secretary-designate Schafer made brief remarks.]

        The President. Thank you, sir. Good job.

    Note: The President spoke at 2:05 p.m. in the Roosevelt Room at the
    White House. The transcript released by the Office of the Press
    Secretary also included the remarks of Secretary-designate Schafer.