Confirmation hearings for Trump’s cabinet picks start today

Senate Committees are full speed ahead with confirmation hearings beginning today for President-elect Trump’s cabinet picks.

Senator Chuck Grassley recently met with Trump’s pick to lead USDA, and says he urged Brooke Rollins to focus on new trade agreements.

“And I would suggest continuing where Trump left off, with starting negotiations with African countries, specifically with Kenya, where they were starting out. And then, the extent to which they can continue to negotiate with the United Kingdom.”

A handful of nominees will begin the confirmation process this week. The Senate Legislative calendar does not have a hearing set for Rollins.

Related Stories
Tyson expects another year of beef-segment losses due to tight cattle supplies, even as chicken, pork, and prepared foods strengthen overall margins.
If the House concurs and the President signs, USDA services and farm-bill programs resume at full speed with authorities extended for another year.
Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on what the bill could mean for truckers.
The DOJ’s new antitrust probe could reshape beef-packer behavior, with potential impacts on fed-cattle prices, processor margins, and long-term competition across the supply chain.
The Senate has cleared a path to reopen USDA, but full restoration of services depends on House approval and the President’s signature.
Congressman Blake Moore of Utah discusses the bill’s potential to promote both economic growth and healthier forests on this week’s Champions of Rural America.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The U.S. Forest Service takes us on the same journey from a tree farm in Nevada across America to experience the magic of Christmas in the U.S. Capitol.
Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-IA, details how the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act (OBBBA) supports farmers, biofuels, and rural communities with tax breaks, crop insurance relief, and ag infrastructure.
Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance shares risk-reduction strategies to help cattle producers prepare for a successful year ahead.
Oregon FFA CEO Kjer Kizer discusses the proposed budget reductions, potential consequences, and the importance of protecting learning opportunities for students interested in agriculture.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains why the 2026 USMCA review could directly affect dairy access, produce competition, and export reliability for U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.