Rollins, president of the America First Policy Institute, is set to lead the USDA with a $437.2 billion budget, tackling trade disputes, biofuel policies, and rural development if confirmed by the Senate.
Donald Trump, the U.S. President-elect, has announced Brooke Rollins as his pick for Secretary of Agriculture, signaling a strategic focus on policies affecting American farmers, rural communities, and the broader agricultural sector.
Rollins, who serves as president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, will assume a critical role if confirmed by the Senate, overseeing the Department of Agriculture’s expansive $437.2 billion budget and its network of offices across the nation.
“As our next Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke will spearhead the effort to protect American Farmers, who are truly the backbone of our Country,”
— Donald Trump, US President-elect
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) plays a pivotal role in areas ranging from farm and nutrition programs to food safety, rural development, and agricultural trade, making this a consequential appointment for both urban and rural Americans.
Brooke Rollins, a seasoned policymaker, chaired the Domestic Policy Council during Trump’s first term and has been closely tied to his campaign’s policy initiatives through her leadership at the America First Policy Institute.
The institute, a right-leaning think tank, has been instrumental in shaping Trump’s agenda, particularly on domestic issues. Her experience and alignment with Trump’s vision are seen as assets for tackling pressing challenges in the agricultural sector, including trade disputes and biofuel policies.
The new agriculture secretary would face significant decisions, such as advising on clean fuel tax credits for biofuels, a sector aiming to expand into sustainable aviation fuel.
Additionally, Rollins will play a crucial role in renegotiating the United States-Mexico-Canada trade agreement next year. These talks are expected to address contentious issues, including Mexico’s efforts to ban imports of genetically modified corn and Canada’s restrictions on dairy imports.
Rollins’ leadership is expected to prioritize strengthening American food self-sufficiency and supporting agriculture-dependent small towns.
Trump’s administration has historically imposed tariffs impacting the agricultural sector, and Rollins’ appointment may influence the direction of future trade policies. Trump previously indicated plans to reinstitute sweeping tariffs, which could affect farming communities.
Rollins will likely navigate these dynamics as she works to balance trade relationships and domestic agricultural priorities.
Before Rollins’ selection, former U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler was reportedly under consideration for the position. Loeffler, a staunch ally of Trump, co-chaired his inaugural committee and was a contender for this pivotal role, CNN reported last Friday.
Ultimately, Trump’s decision to nominate Rollins reflects his confidence in her ability to address the multifaceted demands of the agriculture department.
As agriculture secretary, Rollins will also oversee programs that influence American diets, regulate food safety, and support initiatives such as rural broadband and wildfire prevention.
Her agenda will carry implications not only for farmers but also for urban consumers and the broader economy. Trump praised Rollins’ dedication, stating, “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.”
The Senate confirmation process will be closely watched as stakeholders from various sectors evaluate Rollins’ ability to lead one of the most complex and impactful federal agencies.
If confirmed, she will step into a role that demands balancing the diverse interests of an industry vital to the nation’s economy and way of life.
