U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has named Brooke Rollins, president of the America First Policy Institute and former Domestic Policy Council chair during his first term, as his nominee for Secretary of Agriculture. If confirmed, Rollins will lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), a sprawling 100,000-person agency with a budget of $437.2 billion, responsible for programs ranging from farm policy and nutrition to rural development and agricultural trade.
In a statement, Trump highlighted Rollins’ dedication to supporting American farmers, bolstering food self-sufficiency, and revitalizing agriculture-dependent small towns. “Brooke’s commitment to support the American Farmer, defense of American Food Self-Sufficiency, and the restoration of Agriculture-dependent American Small Towns is second to none,” he said.
Rollins’ tenure could have significant implications for agricultural policy, trade, and food systems. Her responsibilities would include navigating the renegotiation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement, resolving disputes over genetically modified corn imports and dairy quotas, and advising on clean fuel tax credits amid the growth of biofuels like sustainable aviation fuel. Additionally, her role would involve overseeing USDA programs that influence everything from wildfire management to rural broadband access and dietary guidelines.
Trump’s selection of Rollins, who has worked closely with his campaign on policy, underscores his administration’s focus on strengthening American agriculture while addressing pressing trade and energy challenges.
