The National Turkey Federation praised the President’s appointment of Ray Starling as the Special Assistant to the President for Agriculture, Trade and Food Assistance within the National Economic Council. With experience in legislative and agricultural policy, Starling is former Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and served in senior advisory positions within North Carolina, the nation’s second-largest turkey producing state.  Starling’s appointment as Special Assistant to the President for Agriculture, Trade and Food Assistance revitalizes the position, after an eight-year vacancy left unfilled during the previous presidential administration.

“Ray Starling’s knowledge of animal agriculture production is a huge asset,” said Joel Brandenberger. “As the business of supplying turkey continues to grow and become more dynamic, robust international trade is critical. Ray brings his extensive experience on the farm and in state and federal level policymaking to the White House, helping to expand farmers’ international marketing opportunities and to bring a common-sense regulatory approach that will greatly benefit the agricultural and food-production economy.” 

The Special Assistant to the President for Agriculture works with the President and his advisors to ensure that economic policy decisions and programs are being effectively pursued, consistent with the President’s stated goals.