President-elect Donald Trump has selected Brooke Rollins to serve as the next Secretary of Agriculture. In a statement released on Saturday, Trump praised Rollins’ dedication to supporting American farmers, ensuring food self-sufficiency, and revitalizing agriculture-dependent small towns across the nation.
“Brooke’s lifelong commitment to the American farmer is unmatched,” Trump said. “Her deep roots in agricultural development and leadership will play a pivotal role in restoring our rural communities and securing America’s agricultural independence.”
A Background Rooted in Agriculture
Rollins hails from Glen Rose, Texas, a small town with a rich agricultural tradition. A graduate of Texas A&M University, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Development and later received a Juris Doctor degree with honors. Her upbringing on a family farm and active involvement in organizations such as Future Farmers of America and 4-H underscore her extensive experience in the farming world.
“Brooke brings a practitioner’s understanding of the challenges farmers face,” Trump said, adding that Rollins has carried on her agricultural legacy by guiding her own children in their show cattle pursuits. In addition to her hands-on farming expertise, Rollins has a strong policy background, having held leadership roles in both nonprofit and government sectors at state and national levels.
“As our next Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke will champion the cause of the hardworking American farmer, who is the backbone of our country,” Trump concluded. “Congratulations, Brooke!”
An Unexpected Selection
Rollins’ nomination came as a surprise to many. Former Senator Kelly Loeffler, R-Ga., who met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Friday, had been widely considered a leading contender for the position. However, Trump’s Saturday announcement confirmed Rollins as his choice.
Rollins has been a prominent figure in Trump’s political sphere. She previously served as Director of the Office of American Innovation and acting Director of the Domestic Policy Council during Trump’s first term. After leaving the administration, she co-founded the America First Policy Institute, a think tank that advances pro-Trump policies.
The Road Ahead
If confirmed by the Senate, Rollins will oversee the Department of Agriculture (USDA), a vast agency with approximately 100,000 employees and offices in every U.S. county. The USDA’s responsibilities include farm and nutrition programs, forestry, food safety, rural development, and agricultural research.
In her new role, Rollins will face significant challenges, from addressing supply chain disruptions to supporting farmers amid evolving climate conditions. Her extensive experience, both in practical farming and policy development, positions her to tackle these complex issues head-on.
This nomination further cements the Trump administration’s commitment to empowering rural America and safeguarding the nation’s agricultural foundation. Rollins’ appointment signals a renewed focus on policies that prioritize the well-being of farmers and rural communities alike.
