(NAFB.com) – The Senate confirmed Jamieson Greer as the new United States Trade Representative and U.S. agriculture groups offered congratulations to the new chief. “He steps into the job at a critical time for American agriculture,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “Growing trade imbalances and potential tariffs by trading partners threaten rural America with even more economic hardship.” Growth Energy also applauded the confirmation. “After a record-setting year for exports, the U.S. biofuels industry is more focused than ever on accelerating growth through international sales,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Accomplishing that goal will require a strong voice to speak on behalf of America’s farmers and biofuel producers when negotiating new trade agreements, expanding export markets, and addressing unfair trade issues.” Greer is a trade lawyer who served as chief of staff to then-USTR Robert Lighthizer during the previous Trump administration. Five Democrats and 51 Republicans voted for the confirmation.