RFD-TV, industry leaders, and markets react to the new Ag Secretary, Brooke Rollins

Brooke_Rollins_America First Policy Institute.jpg

The Honorable Brooke Rollins

America First Policy Institute

After weeks of closed-door talks, President-elect Donald Trump has made his pick for U.S. Agriculture Secretary.

He has nominated Brooke Rollins, who is currently the president of the America First Policy Institute and has been a strong supporter of President Trump during the campaign.

This is the nomination that we have been waiting on for some time now.

RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander spoke on who Brooke Rollins is, her agriculture background, and motherhood.

Industry groups are weighing in on the decision.

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says, “I congratulate Ms. Rollins on her nomination as Secretary of Agriculture, on behalf of National Farmers Union’s, farmer and rancher members across the country. I am hopeful her rural roots instilled in her the important role family farmers and ranchers play in supporting our nation’s economy.”

Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says, “We congratulate Brooke Rollins on her nomination to be Secretary of Agriculture. We’re pleased she has a good relationship with our state farm bureau in Texas and hope to build on it if she’s confirmed by the Senate. We’re encouraged by her statement that she’d ‘fight for America’s farmers and our nation’s agricultural communities.’”

NCBA’s Ethan Lane also weighed in saying, “From her time as a college student studying agriculture development, to her distinguished career in Texas and Washington, Brooke Rollins has a history of fighting for main street and rural America. America’s cattle producers need a Secretary of Agriculture who will protect family farms and ranches, roll back crushing regulations, and stand up for rural values.”

RFD-TV Market Specialists Tony St. James and Scott Shellady take a deep dive into how the markets are likely to respond.

Related Stories
From projected drops in input costs to biofuel expansion and the USDA’s new “One Farmer, One File” initiative, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins shared key policy priorities at Commodity Classic that put farm issues back in the spotlight.
NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart discussed the legal process behind delisting the prairie chicken, the challenges ranchers faced under the bird’s previous protections, and the benefits of cooperative habitat management for both livestock and wildlife.
U.S.-Mexico agricultural trade faces uncertainty in 2026 as tariffs and cartel violence threaten farmers and ranchers. Congressman Henry Cuellar and Texas leaders weigh in on impacts and risks.
Through “One Farmer, One File,” USDA’s mission is to create a single, streamlined record that follows the farmer — no matter where they go in the USDA system.
USDA headquarters downsizing reflects cost pressures and may reshape agency operations.
USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance payments could begin this weekend as producers face tight margins, shifting acreage expectations, cattle herd contraction, and growing pressure for a stronger farm safety net.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty explains how the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and ongoing ‘America First’ trade policy raise new questions about U.S. farmland values and agricultural market stability.
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.