Dr. Benavidez joined USDA as the Chief Economist in January 2026, where he leads OCE’s mission to ensure USDA’s policies and programs are informed by sound, data-driven economic research in support of America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.
Prior to joining OCE, Dr. Benavidez served as the Chief Economist for the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture. Before joining the Committee, Dr. Benavidez was an Extension Assistant Professor in the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension system, stationed in the Amarillo office serving the Texas Panhandle.
Benavidez received his BS, MS, and PhD in Agricultural Economics from Texas A&M University studying agriculture production economics and agricultural policy. Justin is originally from Tulia, Texas.