President-elect Donald Trump is anticipated to appoint Brooke Rollins, a former policy adviser in his administration, as the head of USDA, according to the Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the situation (link).
Rollins currently serves as the president of the America First Policy Institute, an organization founded by former Trump administration officials that has been strategizing for a potential second term. She is an ally of Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, and was previously considered for the role of White House chief of staff, a position that ultimately went to Susie Wiles, who managed Trump’s campaign.
During Trump’s first term, Rollins was at the helm of the Domestic Policy Council. A Texas native, she has also led the Texas Public Policy Foundation, a conservative think tank.
If confirmed, Rollins is expected to engage in discussions regarding Trump’s proposed sweeping tariffs on U.S. imports, which could have significant implications for American farmers.
Representatives for both Rollins and Trump’s transition team have not yet responded to requests for comment, the WSJ said.
While Trump considered appointing businesswoman Kelly Loeffler, who briefly served as a senator from Georgia, to lead USDA, WSJ sources indicate that Rollins is now the favored choice.
Note: As of now, both individuals are reported as potential nominees for the USDA Secretary position. However, the Wall Street Journal’s report on Rollins suggests a more definitive expectation of her appointment, while CNN and others maintain that Loeffler is still in contention. Until an official announcement is made by Trump, it remains unclear who will ultimately be chosen for this key role.
Rollins discussed the position with Trump this week and holds a degree in agriculture development from Texas A&M University, having grown up on a farm.
This expected appointment comes as Trump swiftly assembles his economic team, which includes a blend of loyalists and affluent financiers. Recently, he announced investor Scott Bessent as Treasury secretary and Russell Vought as head of the Office of Management and Budget. Earlier this week, he selected Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, to lead the Commerce Department.
Two critical roles remain unfilled: the director of the National Economic Council and the U.S. trade representative.