by Frank Angst

Michigan has begun a search for a new racing commissioner following Christine White's resignation from the Office of Racing Commissioner.

White has accepted a position with President Barack Obama’s administration as State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency for Michigan at the United States Department of Agriculture.

White resigned on Monday, effective Friday. A spokesperson for Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm said White did an outstanding job as racing commissioner since being appointed in 2005.

While Michigan did cut staff in the office of racing commissioner in May, White will be replaced. The spokesperson said a person would first be hired on an interim basis.

White has worked in agriculture-related jobs in Michigan since 1978.

Frank Angst is senior writer for Thoroughbred Times