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JUNE 8, 2001

Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman on Thursday defended one of her department's nominees who has been criticized by African-American lawmakers and civil rights groups.

Veneman said Iowa farmer Thomas Dorr is a "visionary" and would do well as undersecretary for rural development.

The Congressional Black Caucus has asked the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee to investigate comments Dorr made about ethnic and religious diversity. The commitee's incoming chairman, Senator Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) hasn't taken a position on Dorr but said he is concerned about the remarks.

The committee hasn't scheduled a confirmation hearing for Dorr yet.

Get the Story:
Veneman defends embattled nominee as 'visionary' (AP 6/7)

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