Ag Secretary tests positive for Covid-19

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday ahead of scheduled travel to Denver. He is experiencing mild symptoms.

He is fully vaccinated and boosted, according to a statement from the department, and the secretary’s office is conducting contact tracing and notifying those with whom he may have been a close contact in accordance with CDC guidance.

The secretary met with Mexican officials while on official travel in Mexico on Monday and Tuesday this week. Per USDA, Vilsack tested negative at the time of his departure and after his return. Out of an abundance of caution, the Mexican government has been informed of this positive test.

“Secretary Vilsack will isolate in accordance with CDC guidelines and will return to the office after testing negative for the virus,” USDA said in a statement. “During that time, he will continue his official duties.”

Vilsack will no longer be traveling to Denver, Col., to promote infrastructure and wildland firefighting investments. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and Forest Service Chief Randy Moore are still scheduled to travel, a USDA spokesperson told POLITICO.