The full Senate will consider her nomination
President Trump’s nominee to lead the United States Department of Agriculture has cleared her first hurdle.
Brooke Rollins received unanimous support from the Senate Agriculture Committee on route to becoming the next Secretary of Agriculture.
Rollins testified in front of the committee on Jan. 23 where she outlines efficient disaster and economic assistance, animal disease management, passing a new Farm Bill, revitalizing the USDA’s operations, and rural development and sustainability, as top priorities.
She received the committee’s support on Feb. 3.
“I appreciate her willingness to serve and encourage my colleagues to quickly confirm her so USDA will be guided by her dependable leadership,” Ag Committee Chairman John Boozman said in a statement.
Senators could vote on her nomination next week.
The Senate’s executive calendar for Feb. 10 shows Rollins’ vote scheduled that day among others that include Robert Kennedey as Secretary of Health and Human Services, and Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence.
Since receiving the green light from the ag committee, multiple industry groups are voicing support for Rollins and urging for her speedy confirmation.
The American Farm Bureau, for example, says farmers need a secretary of agriculture immediately.
“I respectfully urge you to prioritize her confirmation and work with your colleagues to ensure that the USDA has the leadership necessary to support the millions of Americans who depend on its programs and policies,” he said in a Feb. 3 letter to Senate leaders.
“Brooke Rollins’s leadership and dedication to advancing American agriculture will be instrumental in ensuring a strong future for farmers, rural communities, and the biofuels industry,” Tom Buis, CEO of the American Carbon Alliance, said in a statement. “We look forward to working with her to expand opportunities for farmers, support policies that drive rural economic development and energy independence, and build a robust ag economy.”