USDA Announces Presidential Appointee to Serve Rural Pennsylvania

(Harrisburg, Pa., July 30, 2026) - U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Joe Gilson has announced that Chris Hoffman has been appointed by President Donald Trump to serve as the USDA Rural Development State Director for the state of Pennsylvania. Director Hoffman will implement President Trump's America First agenda at USDA Rural Development, ensuring the needs of America's farmers, ranchers, and producers remain a top priority.

"USDA Rural Development state directors serve as the agency's connection to the people and places that define rural America," said Gilson. "With leadership from Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and the Trump Administration, they play a vital role in advancing job creation, economic development, housing opportunities, and infrastructure that strengthen the communities they serve. The deep experience and strong leadership Chris brings will help expand economic opportunity and improve the lives of people across the Commonwealth."

"I'm honored to be selected by President Trump and Secretary Rollins to lead USDA Rural Development in Pennsylvania and continue my advocacy for rural communities," said Hoffman. "I am ready to get to work and continue Rural Development's mission to invest in safe and affordable housing, modern and effective emergency services and community facilities, innovative and local business opportunities, and effective rural utility services. Together we can make these communities thrive."

"Chris Hoffman is a champion for Pennsylvania's number one industry: agriculture," said Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture Representative Glenn "GT" Thompson. "He understands the importance of rural communities in Pennsylvania and knows exactly the kind of support they need. I applaud him on this well-deserved appointment."

Director Hoffman brings a strong record of agriculture engagement, leadership, mentorship, and outreach to his new role. He previously served as the President of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and served on the Board of Directors for the American Farm Bureau. He is also a first-generation swine and poultry farmer. He has spent the last two decades advocating for farmers and rural communities through numerous agriculture leadership positions, his own experiences as a first-generation farm, and mentoring the next generation in agriculture.

State Directors serve as the Chief Executive Officer of USDA Rural Development in the states and territories and are tasked with leading teams to carry out the mission of Rural Development to the benefit of all rural Americans. In conjunction with the guidance and support of the National Office, State Directors are responsible for advancing the key priorities and initiatives of the Presidential Administration, the Secretary of Agriculture and the Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development. State Directors also provide key leadership to foster a mission-driven, accountable, and high-performing workforce focused on operational excellence, public trust, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources.

To learn more about USDA Rural Development's leadership and programs, view www.rd.usda.gov .

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