Travis L. Day Appointed USDA Rural Development State Director for New Mexico

It is announced that the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Rollins has officially announced the appointment by President Donald Trump of Travis L Day as the USDA Rural Development State Director for New Mexico.

In this key leadership role, Director Day will serve as the chief executive officer for USDA Rural Development operations in the state of New Mexico. He is tasked with advancing President Trump’s agenda, prioritizing the needs of farmers, ranchers, producers, and rural communities by delivering federal programs, infrastructure support, and economic opportunities where they are needed most.

Rollins highlighted the significance of the appointment as part of a broader slate of USDA leaders focused on reorienting the agency toward rural prosperity.

“When America’s farming communities prosper, the entire nation thrives. This new group of USDA appointees will ensure President Trump’s America First agenda is a reality in rural areas across the country. I am grateful for the leadership of these new state directors and look forward to their work reorienting the agency to put Farmers First again,” said Rollins.

Day, a native New Mexican with deep roots in the state—including growing up in areas known for their geothermal hot springs—brings a wealth of relevant experience from the private, nonprofit, and government sectors. His background emphasizes creating opportunities for businesses, local governments, and rural residents.

He previously served as chairman of the Sierra County Commission, where he championed community-driven growth initiatives and addressed the unique challenges facing rural New Mexico, such as economic development, infrastructure needs, and resource stewardship.

“I am honored to serve as State Director for USDA RD in New Mexico. Rural communities are vital to the state’s economy and culture, and I look forward to working with local leaders, farmers, and businesses to expand opportunity, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure that federal programs and resources reach the communities that need them the most,” said Director Day.

As State Director, Day will lead efforts to implement USDA Rural Development’s mission: fostering mission-driven teams, operational excellence, public trust, and responsible use of taxpayer resources. This includes supporting housing, utilities, business loans, community facilities, and other programs that bolster rural vitality under the guidance of the national office, Secretary Rollins, and the Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development.

The appointment, announced on January 6, 2026, as part of a new wave of presidential appointees at USDA, underscores a commitment to uplifting rural America through experienced local leadership.

For more information on USDA Rural Development programs, leadership, and initiatives in New Mexico, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

The Alamogordo and broader New Mexico community celebrates this milestone for a dedicated public servant with strong ties to the state. Best wishes to Director Travis Day in his new role—may it bring continued growth and support to rural New Mexico!

#USDARuralDevelopment #NewMexico #TravisDay #AmericaFirst #RuralProsperity

(Story compiled from USDA official announcements, Los Alamos Daily Post coverage, USDA.gov

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