**Trump Appoints Brooke Rollins as Secretary of Agriculture**

President-elect Donald Trump announced on Saturday that Brooke Rollins, one of his former policy advisers, has been selected to lead the Department of Agriculture. Trump praised Rollins' dedication to supporting American farmers, enhancing food self-sufficiency, and revitalizing small towns reliant on agriculture.

Initially, Trump was reportedly considering businesswoman and former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler for the role. Discussions regarding the position had taken place between Loeffler and the transition team, and she even met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Friday. However, Trump's delay in making the Agriculture appointment after issuing several other nominations on Friday night led to speculation about whether Loeffler was ultimately extended the offer.

Rollins currently serves as CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group closely affiliated with Trump's transition efforts. She has been an outspoken supporter of Trump, congratulating him on his election victory earlier this month in a post on X, expressing pride in promoting his America First vision. Previously, Rollins was considered for the position of White House chief of staff but decided not to pursue it due to the potential for a power struggle with Susie Wiles, who was eventually appointed.

Sources revealed that Rollins expressed interest in the Agriculture secretary role during discussions with the transition team. Following a conversation with Trump this week regarding the position, her appointment was finalized. Trump highlighted Rollins' upcoming role as essential for protecting American farmers, whom he called "the backbone of our country."

During Trump's first term, Rollins served as the director of the White House Domestic Policy Council. She also has extensive experience in conservative policy circles, having led the Texas Public Policy Foundation for 15 years.