Brooke Rollins, the 33rd Secretary of Agriculture, is focusing efforts on market expansion, rural prosperity, and addressing farmer concerns in her new role within the Trump-Vance administration.
The former Texas governor's aide, and the first Texan appointed to lead the department, brings a background in agriculture development and law to the position. She previously served alongside former Texas Governor Rick Perry.
Among her actions since taking office, Secretary Rollins recently visited Lubbock within her first 65 days, meeting with West Texas farmers and leaders. Discussions included the impact of low cotton prices and ongoing drought conditions on producers.
She also toured the Cotton Classification Complex, a collaboration between the Department of Agriculture and Texas Tech University, highlighting partnerships aimed at strengthening the local agriculture industry.
Looking ahead, the Secretary plans to travel to the United Kingdom in May to represent American producers and work on expanding market access for U.S.-grown commodities. This is part of a broader effort to address trade imbalances and reverse agricultural trade deficits.
The Department of Agriculture, under her leadership, is also evaluating the effectiveness of nutrition programs. Several states have requested waivers for the food stamp program to prioritize healthy choices.
Furthermore, the department is reviewing the Dietary Guidelines for Americans in collaboration with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy.
Efforts also include using available tools to support domestic production across sectors like timber, minerals, and biofuels, aiming to reduce regulatory burdens on producers.
The administration is focused on putting farmers first and unleashing a new era of rural prosperity across the country.
"This administration is committed to doing everything we can through carrot or stick, to ensure that our farmers and our ranchers are supported," Secretary Rollins said.