Trump names Rollins as agriculture secretary, finalizing Cabinet lineup

President-elect Donald Trump recently announced that he plans to nominate Brooke Rollins, a former White House aide, as his next agriculture secretary. Rollins has a background in agricultural development, having graduated from Texas A&M University, and she currently serves as the president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute.

If confirmed by the Senate, Rollins will take over the role from Tom Vilsack, who currently leads the Department of Agriculture under President Joe Biden. The Department of Agriculture oversees a wide range of policies and programs related to farming, forestry, ranching, food quality, and nutrition.

Rollins previously worked as White House domestic policy chief during Trump’s first presidency and has a history of advocating for policies aligned with the Trump administration’s priorities. She has also served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and has experience running a think tank in Texas.

With Rollins’ nomination, Trump has now completed his slate of proposed Cabinet secretaries, just a few weeks after winning the White House for a second time. Rollins spoke highly of Trump, describing him as an “amazing boss” and highlighting her surprise at his political longevity, given her initial doubts about his candidacy.

While Trump has not shared many specifics about his agriculture policies, his past actions, such as imposing tariffs on certain goods, have had implications for farmers. The Department of Agriculture plays a crucial role in overseeing support programs for farmers, ensuring animal and plant health, and setting food safety standards.

Overall, Rollins’ nomination is a significant step in finalizing Trump’s Cabinet lineup, and her background suggests a continued focus on agriculture and domestic policy in the upcoming administration.