Bush picks Nebraska governor for vacant secretary of agriculture post

WASHINGTON -- President George W. Bush on Thursday selected Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns, a Republican attorney who grew up on an Iowa dairy farm, as secretary of agriculture to oversee the nation's farm and food programs.\nBush said Johanns is "an experienced public servant from America's agricultural heartland" with a long record of being "a faithful friend to America's farmers and ranchers."\nJohanns, 54, would succeed Ann M. Veneman, who recently announced her resignation despite saying earlier that she wanted to stay.\nSo far, seven of Bush's 15-member Cabinet have announced they won't be part of the second term. More are expected, and officials say Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson appears to be next.\nJohanns' appointment was praised by Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa.\n"During this process I have said that the next agriculture secretary must have a strong background in international trade," Grassley said in a statement.\nBush announced his intention to nominate the two-term governor in the Roosevelt Room of the White House.\nThe nomination, which requires Senate confirmation, reflects the administration's desire to focus heavily on farm trade over the next four years.\nAs his wife Stephanie looked on, Johanns thanked Bush for inviting him to serve, saying, "I have enormous respect for you."\n"I look forward to advancing your rural agenda for the 21st century," Johanns said.