[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 47 (Monday, November 22, 2004)]
[Page 2829]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Resignation of
Ann M. Veneman as Secretary of Agriculture

November 15, 2004

    Ann Veneman has been a strong advocate for America's farm and ranch 
families. As Secretary of Agriculture, she has been a valuable member of 
my Cabinet, working to ensure that we promote economic opportunities for 
farmers and ranchers, ensure a safe and wholesome food supply, and sell 
American farm products all around the world.
    I commend Ann for her efforts to enact and implement a responsible 
farm bill with strong conservation provisions. I greatly appreciate 
Ann's leadership in ensuring that we responded quickly and effectively 
to protect the American food supply following the discovery of BSE in 
the United States and following September 11th. She has helped ensure 
commonsense forest management and skillfully implemented the Healthy 
Forests Initiative. She has played a key role in opening markets and in 
ensuring a level playing field for America's farm products.
    Ann has served our country with distinction and integrity. I 
appreciate her fine work and wish her well.

 Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also made available Secretary 
Veneman's letter of resignation.