Trump Finalizes His Cabinet with Brooke Rollins as Secretary of Agriculture
In a significant move, President-elect Donald Trump has completed his cabinet appointments by naming Brooke Rollins as the Secretary of Agriculture. This announcement, made on November 24, 2024, marks the final piece in Trump's government formation, which will soon be submitted to the Senate for validation. Rollins, who is currently the president of the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), previously served as the director of the White House Domestic Policy Council during Trump's first term. Her extensive background in conservative policy and advocacy positions her as a strong ally for Trump’s agricultural agenda.
Trump praised Rollins, stating, "Her commitment to American farmers and revitalizing small towns dependent on agriculture is unmatched." As Secretary of Agriculture, Rollins will oversee crucial government agricultural programs, food safety, and animal welfare, among other responsibilities. This appointment comes amid a broader strategy by Trump to reward loyalists within his administration, including notable figures such as Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State and Pete Hegseth at Defense.
Potential Conflicts and Remaining Appointments
While Rollins' appointment is celebrated by Trump supporters, it may lead to potential conflicts, particularly with Health Secretary-elect Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who aims to enhance the quality of America’s food supply by reducing chemicals and ultra-processed foods. This dynamic could create a challenging environment within the new administration regarding agricultural policies.
Despite finalizing most of his cabinet, Trump still has a few key positions to fill, including the head of Small and Medium Enterprises and the White House Trade Representative. The new Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, is expected to oversee these roles, which traditionally report directly to the presidency. As Trump prepares to take office, the focus will shift to assigning approximately 4,000 positions within the federal administration, indicating a busy transition ahead.
