Brooke Rollins, a conservative lawyer and close ally of former President Donald Trump, has been confirmed as the new secretary of agriculture. In her role, Rollins will oversee various aspects of the nation’s food system, including farming practices, federal subsidies, and nutrition standards. Notably, Rollins faces challenges such as potential farm labor shortages due to mass deportation plans and the impact of tariffs on agricultural exports.

During her confirmation hearing, Rollins expressed support for Trump’s immigration policies while also pledging to protect farmers. She emphasized the need to balance these priorities and work towards a secure border. Rollins brings a background in legal activism and public policy analysis, having previously led the America First Policy Institute, a think tank aligned with the Trump administration.

The Senate’s agriculture committee unanimously approved Rollins’ nomination, with supporters praising her qualifications and commitment to modernizing the Department of Agriculture. However, Democrats raised concerns about funding freezes affecting farmers and universities, as well as potential conflicts between Rollins’ support for farming communities and Trump’s trade agenda.

Rollins affirmed her dedication to advocating for rural America and emphasized the importance of exports for these communities. She highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to revitalizing rural areas, acknowledging that government efforts alone are not sufficient. Rollins’ appointment signals a shift in agricultural policy under the new administration, with a focus on addressing key challenges and opportunities in the sector.