Washington, D.C. – President Trump has nominated Brooke Rollins, president and CEO of the conservative think tank America First Policy Institute, to be the next agriculture secretary, the White House announced today.

Rollins, a longtime advocate for agricultural issues, would replace Sonny Perdue, who resigned from the post in January. If confirmed by the Senate, she would be the first woman to serve as agriculture secretary since Ann Veneman held the position under President George W. Bush.

“Brooke Rollins is an outstanding choice to lead USDA,” said President Trump in a statement. “Her deep understanding of agriculture and her commitment to American farmers and ranchers will ensure that our nation’s food supply remains strong and secure.”

Rollins has previously served as undersecretary of agriculture for food, nutrition, and consumer services under President George H.W. Bush and as a member of the board of directors for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

In her role at America First Policy Institute, Rollins has been a vocal critic of the Biden administration’s agricultural policies, particularly its focus on climate change mitigation.

Some farm groups have expressed support for Rollins’ nomination, while others have raised concerns about her conservative views on environmental regulation.

The Senate Agriculture Committee will hold a hearing on Rollins’ nomination in the coming weeks. If confirmed, she would take office at a time when the U.S. agricultural sector is facing challenges such as rising input costs, supply chain disruptions, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The appointment of Rollins has also sparked controversy among Democrats, with some expressing concerns about her lack of experience in agriculture and her ties to corporate interests.

The nomination is expected to face a tough confirmation battle in the Senate, where Democrats hold a slim majority. However, Republicans have indicated that they will support Rollins, increasing her chances of being confirmed.