Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed enthusiasm for President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Brooke Rollins as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, describing her as someone who takes action and is approachable. Reynolds highlighted Rollins’ farm upbringing and understanding of agriculture’s global impact, saying she looks forward to collaborating with her on issues like biofuels and Iowa’s role in food production.
Reynolds also noted her previous work with Rollins during Trump’s first term, when Rollins served as acting director of the White House Domestic Policy Council.
However, some critics argue that her leadership of a conservative think tank and her tenure in domestic policy may not adequately prepare her to address the complex challenges faced by the agriculture industry, including trade disputes and climate impacts. They worry her appointment might prioritize ideological goals over practical solutions for farmers and rural communities.
Senator Chuck Grassley, who will participate in Rollins’ confirmation process, expressed a positive outlook on her nomination. Grassley acknowledged Rollins’ role during Trump’s first term in advancing criminal justice reform and said he intends to discuss her views on agriculture before the Senate Agriculture Committee considers her nomination.
