WASHINGTON, March 7, 2007 - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns has named David L. Johnson as a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Chief of Staff, joining Beth Johnson in that role.

"Dave Johnson returns to USDA with broad experience in agricultural policy, working knowledge of the department and a practical approach to ensuring government serves its citizens," said Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns. "Dave's experienced counsel and even-handed approach to complex issues will fit well within our leadership philosophy."

Johnson worked for USDA in the 1990's in the Foreign Agricultural Service as the deputy director of legislative affairs.

Most recently, Johnson served as chief counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. He specialized in food, agricultural credit, and environmental policy during his tenure with the committee from 1994 to 2007.

Johnson holds a law degree from the University of Chicago Law School. He has a bachelor's degree from Purdue University. Johnson is an Indiana native.