Sen. David Perdue applauds former Gov. Sonny Perdue’s nomination as ag secretary

ALBANY — For the Perdues of Georgia, it’s becoming a family affair in Washington.

On Wednesday, former Gov. Sonny Perdue was selected by President-elect Donald Trump to join his cabinet as secretary of agriculture. He’s certain of one confirmation vote in the Senate in particular. His cousin, U.S. Sen. David Perdue, R-Sea Island, quickly applauded the nomination.

“I could not be more proud of my cousin, Sonny, for being named the next secretary of agriculture,” Sen. Perdue said. “Sonny’s executive experience as a two-term governor of Georgia, the first Republican in 135 years, as well as his veterinary background and agribusiness career, are a few of the many reasons he is the best person for the job.

“Sonny is a national leader, having served as the chairman of the Republican Governors Association, board member for the National Grain & Feed Association, president of the Georgia Feed and Grain Association, and president of the Southeastern Feed and Grain Association. I am confident Sonny will work hard to advance smart agriculture policies that will help our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across the country.”

Sen. Perdue sits on the U.S. Senate’s Agriculture Committee.

Sonny Perdue is the second Georgian nominated by Trump to a cabinet post. U.S. Rep. Tom Price, a physician who currently represents the 6th Congressional District, has been tapped for secretary of Health and Human Services. Price underwent a four-hour hearing in the Senate on Wednesday.