Strong Leadership, Stronger Future

America’s farmers and ranchers are no strangers to uncertainty, but the challenges they face today call for immediate attention and decisive leadership. With the confirmation of Brooke Rollins as Secretary of Agriculture, USDA has the opportunity to continue its long history of working with farmers and ranchers to prioritize stability, security and sustainability, and we look forward to coming to the table to continue this work in the days ahead.

Secretary Rollins steps into this role at a pivotal time as farm country is facing economic pressure, unpredictable markets and policy decisions that could have long-lasting consequences. While we have confidence in her ability to navigate these challenges, the urgency of the situation requires strong leadership.

One of the most pressing concerns is the impact of tariffs on agricultural trade. Farmers rely on global markets to sell their products, and uncertainty in trade relationships with key partners could lead to significant financial strain across the agriculture economy and the 42.6 million U.S. jobs it supports. If trade conflicts escalate, farm families will be left with low prices or a surplus of crops with no viable markets – something we simply cannot afford right now. Secretary Rollins will have a critical role in working across the administration to ensure that agricultural trade remains a priority and that American farmers are not caught in the crossfire of broader geopolitical disputes.

At home, confusion over the status of government programs has left many farmers in limbo. Questions remain about which initiatives are moving forward and whether signed contracts will be upheld. Farm families must not be left holding the bag for investments they made in good faith for conservation practices. Farmers made planting decisions trusting federal agencies would uphold their end of the agreements. We need stability and transparency in these programs, to keep our farms economically sustainable in all seasons.

Another pressing issue we will work with the Secretary to address is the promised disaster and economic aid that was authorized at the end of last year. The delays in getting those funds have caused unnecessary hardships, and with planting season quickly approaching, timely assistance is critical. Farmers need relief so that they can focus on what they do best, producing the food, fiber and renewable fuel we all rely on.

Additionally, we look forward to working with Secretary Rollins and her team as we continue to call on Congress for a new, modernized farm bill that provides a necessary safety net for farmers. We need her as a strong advocate to get this across the finish line and ensure new programs reflect the realities of modern farming.

We also need her leadership in addressing reforms to the Farm Labor Survey. Agriculture has reached a crisis point when it comes to accessing – and affording – a stable workforce. Farmers across the country tell me this is one of the greatest challenges they face, and for many, labor costs and shortages threaten to put them out of business.

The list of priorities for farm and ranch families is long, but Secretary Rollins is up to the challenge. Her experience in Washington and her ability to navigate complex policy issues make her well-equipped to tackle the tough issues facing agriculture. We stand ready to work alongside her and the administration to ensure that government serves as a partner in the success of America’s farmers and ranchers.