Farm Progress America, Feb. 17, 2025

Mike Pearson takes a look at the possible confirmations for President Trump's cabinet this week.

Brooke Rollins was approved this week to lead the USDA. She has pledged to bolster the ag economy and streamline the USDA and go after trade policies that favor farmers. However, some critics have questioned whether or not she has enough on-farm experience.

Another controversial nominee approved is Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. The Senate voted to install Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at the helm of the Department of Health and Human Services. Kennedy will handle food safety and other initiatives that could impact the ag industry.

Former Wyoming Game and Fish Department Director Brian Nesvik has been nominated to lead the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director.

The department handles land use and endangered species protection and hopefully reduce regulatory worries for farmers.

Also set to be named are several USDA undersecretaries including one to oversee farmland production and conservation.

Another to oversee rural development and trade policies. The undersecretaries will shape policies ranging from disaster relief to commodity markets.

Farm Progress America is a daily look at key issues in agriculture. It is produced and presented by Mike Pearson, farm broadcaster and host of This Week in Agribusiness .

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