Former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue is still a top contender for Donald Trump's agriculture secretary. But there's a new air of uncertainty surrounding his supporters amid reports that another rival is emerging.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and multiple media outlets reported on Monday that Trump is narrowing in on the 70-year-old Republican for one of his final Cabinet posts, citing transition officials and other people with direct knowledge of Trump's negotiations. While Perdue has declined to comment, his backers say he spent time with the president-elect over the holidays and point to farm groups that have embraced him.
But Trump is ever-unpredictable, and now there are reports that former California Lt. Gov. Abel Maldonado is the front-runner to head the sprawling department.
Among them was this piece by CNN, which reported that Maldonado, a Mexican-American with a farming background, is the "front-runner" to head the department.
Stay tuned.
Read more about the Trump transition and the Perdues:
Sonny Perdue meets Donald Trump: ‘I’d be happy to serve’
Sonny Perdue discusses ‘skill set’ with Trump, who still needs ag chief
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