Trump Selects Brooke Rollins as Agriculture Secretary
President-elect Donald Trump has announced Brooke Rollins, a longtime ally, as his pick for Secretary of Agriculture. Rollins currently serves as the president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a pro-Trump conservative think tank she co-founded in 2021.
"As our next Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke will spearhead the effort to protect American farmers, who are truly the backbone of our country," Trump said in a statement.
If confirmed by the Senate, Rollins would lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), a vast agency with a workforce of approximately 100,000 employees and offices in every U.S. county. The USDA oversees a wide range of responsibilities, including farm and nutrition programs, rural development, agricultural trade, food safety, and forestry. Its 2024 budget was $437.2 billion.
Rollins, a 52-year-old attorney, was previously considered for the role of White House chief of staff in Trump’s upcoming administration. While Trump reportedly referred to her as a “great” option, the position ultimately went to Susie Wiles, Trump’s 2024 campaign manager.
Rollins has deep roots in conservative politics. She served as acting director of the White House Domestic Policy Council during the final year of Trump’s first term. Prior to her time in Washington, the Texas native worked under Trump’s former Energy Secretary Rick Perry and led the Texas Public Policy Foundation, a prominent conservative think tank.
The role of agriculture secretary carries significant implications for the U.S. economy, food systems, and rural development. The USDA negotiates trade deals, establishes dietary guidelines, inspects meat, combats wildfires, and supports rural broadband initiatives. If confirmed, Rollins will also play a key role in advising the administration on clean fuel tax credits and the growth of biofuels, including sustainable aviation fuel.
This appointment reflects Trump’s continued focus on aligning his administration with individuals who share his policy priorities and vision for America's future.
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