Highlights
- Brooke Rollins is expected to be nominated as Agriculture Secretary by President-elect Donald Trump.
- She has a strong agricultural background, growing up on a Texas farm and earning a degree from Texas A&M University.
- Rollins previously led Trump’s Domestic Policy Council and currently heads the America First Policy Institute.
- Her role will include addressing challenges like Trump’s tariffs and their impact on American farmers.
- Rollins’ appointment is part of Trump’s rapidly forming second-term Cabinet and economic team.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – President-elect Donald Trump is expected to nominate Brooke Rollins as the next Secretary of Agriculture, according to multiple sources familiar with the decision.
Rollins, a Texas native with a background in farming and extensive policy experience, is anticipated to play a pivotal role in shaping U.S. agricultural policies in Trump’s second-term Cabinet.
The decision reflects Trump’s commitment to appointing loyal and experienced figures to key positions.
Rollins, a trusted ally who previously served as head of the White House Domestic Policy Council during Trump’s first administration, brings both expertise and a deep understanding of rural America to the table.
Agricultural Roots and Policy Expertise
Rollins grew up on a farm in Texas, where she developed a strong connection to the agricultural industry.
After earning a degree in agricultural development from Texas A&M University, she pursued a career that combined her agricultural background with her passion for public policy.
As the president of the Texas Public Policy Foundation for 15 years, Rollins gained national attention for her work advocating for conservative values.
Her leadership in this role helped her establish strong ties with influential figures in the Republican Party, ultimately leading to her appointment as head of Trump’s Domestic Policy Council during his first term.
In her most recent role as president of the America First Policy Institute, Rollins has focused on advancing the economic and domestic agenda aligned with Trump’s vision.
Her work there has positioned her as a natural fit for the Agriculture Secretary role, which will require her to address complex issues affecting farmers and rural communities.
Responsibilities at USDA
As Secretary of Agriculture, Rollins will oversee the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), a federal agency responsible for managing farm policy, food assistance programs, and rural development initiatives.
The position holds significant influence over the livelihood of American farmers, food safety standards, and the economic stability of rural areas.
One of the most pressing challenges awaiting Rollins is addressing the impact of Trump’s proposed tariffs on imports. While these tariffs are intended to bolster domestic production, they could disrupt international markets critical to U.S. farmers.
Rollins will need to navigate these policies carefully to minimize adverse effects on the agricultural sector while advancing Trump’s “America First” agenda.
A Trusted Ally in Trump’s Cabinet
Rollins’ nomination is part of Trump’s strategy to form a Cabinet that blends loyalty with expertise. She has worked closely with Trump and his inner circle, including Jared Kushner, during his first term.
Her ability to manage complex policy issues and her deep understanding of Trump’s priorities make her a key figure in his second-term plans.
Sources indicate that Rollins recently discussed the Agriculture Secretary role with Trump.
While other candidates, including former Georgia Senator Kelly Loeffler, were reportedly considered for the position, Rollins emerged as the leading choice due to her experience and close alignment with Trump’s vision.
Challenges Ahead for American Farmers
Trump’s proposed economic policies, particularly his sweeping tariffs, present a mixed bag for American farmers.
While the tariffs aim to promote domestic production by limiting competition from imports, they also risk creating trade tensions that could hurt U.S. agricultural exports.
Rollins will need to craft policies that support farmers amid these challenges, ensuring that they can remain competitive in both domestic and international markets.
Additionally, she will oversee key food assistance programs, which are critical for millions of Americans, especially in economically struggling rural areas.
A Rapidly Forming Economic Team
Rollins’ expected nomination is part of Trump’s fast-paced effort to build a robust second-term Cabinet.
Other notable appointments include Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary, Russell Vought to lead the Office of Management and Budget, and Howard Lutnick as Commerce Secretary.
Together, these leaders will shape Trump’s economic policies, with Rollins focusing on the agricultural sector’s unique challenges.
Two critical economic roles remain unfilled in Trump’s Cabinet: the director of the National Economic Council and the U.S. Trade Representative. These positions will likely work closely with Rollins to ensure that trade policies align with the broader goals of the administration.
