Senate confirms Vetter as chief ag trade negotiator

   The Senate on Wednesday confirmed Darci L. Vetter as the next U.S. chief agricultural negotiator.
   President Obama nominated Vetter in January, citing her experience in numerous agriculture, trade and diplomatic positions across several branches of the federal government — most recently as deputy undersecretary for farm and foreign agricultural services at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
   Agricultural trade groups applauded the Senate’s confirmation of Vetter to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
   “Ms. Vetter is a versatile and capable advocate for American agriculture,” said Ray Gaesser, president of the American Soybean Association, in a statement. “As we move forward with new trade agreements with Europe and our partners in the Pacific Rim, and as we restore and strengthen relationships with existing trading partners, Ms. Vetter will provide a strong voice for American soybean farmers at the highest level.”