Bonnie Johnson
May 08, 2025
Media ArticleTom Campbell, a former state senator and long-time agriculture professional, has been appointed as the new U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development state director for North Dakota. Campbell’s appointment was announced in a USDA news release, highlighting his agricultural background and service in the state legislature.
Campbell is known for helping build Campbell Farms, a potato growing operation based in the Grafton region. Along with his agricultural roots, he also has professional experience in real estate and banking.
His public service record includes time in the North Dakota Senate from 2013 to 2018. He later ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018 and again in 2024. He had initially declared a campaign for governor but later switched to the House race, suspending that campaign in March 2024.
As USDA Rural Development state director, Campbell will lead efforts in rural housing, internet connectivity, and water supply. His leadership is expected to enhance the quality of life for residents in rural communities across North Dakota.
“The mission of Rural Development is vital to our communities, and I am eager to connect with the leaders and stakeholders throughout our great state,” Campbell said in a news release.
Campbell takes over the position from Erin Oban, who held the role under the Biden administration.
In related leadership news, Brad Thykeson has returned as the state executive director for the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) in North Dakota, a position he previously held during a past administration. The FSA plays a key role in managing agricultural programs like commodity support, disaster assistance, and credit services. Marcy Svenningsen most recently led the FSA during the Biden administration.
Campbell’s experience and leadership are expected to bring continued development and progress to rural North Dakota.
Photo by: USDA Rural Development
