Who / What
Brooke Leslie Rollins is an American attorney and political official who has served as the 33rd United States Secretary of Agriculture since February 2025. She previously held senior legal, ethics, and policy advisory roles in the Texas state government and led a prominent conservative think tank.
Background & History
Rollins was born in 1972 and began her career in Texas, serving as deputy general counsel, ethics advisor, and policy director to Governor Rick Perry. From 2003 to 2018 she directed the Texas Public Policy Foundation, an Austin-based conservative think tank. In February 2025, she was appointed by the administration as Secretary of Agriculture of the United States.
Why Notable
She occupies one of the most influential cabinet positions in the federal government, responsible for shaping national agricultural, food, and rural policies. Her leadership of the Texas Public Policy Foundation positioned her at the center of conservative policy debates for 15 years. Transitioning from Texas state roles to a federal office highlights her bipartisan appeal and policy expertise.
In the News
Rollins’ appointment as Secretary of Agriculture in February 2025 has sparked discussions about the administration’s direction on farm policy and food security. Her previous work with the Texas Public Policy Foundation and the Rick Perry administration is frequently cited in debates over regulatory reform and ethics in government. The announcement is timely as the farm sector faces climate change, trade negotiations, and food supply challenges.
