President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Brooke Rollins, a close associate, as the new Secretary of Agriculture.

Currently, Rollins serves as the president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a conservative think tank she established in 2021 with other members of Trump’s circle during his absence from office.

Trump stated, “Brooke will lead our initiatives to support American farmers, who are the foundation of our nation,” regarding her new role.

If the Senate approves her nomination, Rollins will oversee a large agency consisting of 100,000 employees, which has offices across the nation. The department is responsible for various programs related to farming and nutrition, forestry, home and farm loans, food safety, rural development, agriculture research, and trade, operating with a budget of $437.2 billion in 2024.

At 52 years old, Rollins has been mentioned as a potential chief of staff for Trump in the White House. According to the New York Times, Trump spoke highly of her in private, appreciating her presence and appearance.

However, the role eventually went to Susie Wiles, Trump’s campaign manager for the 2024 election. Wiles was announced shortly after Trump secured a significant electoral victory earlier this month.

Rollins previously spoke at the Republican National Convention and has a background as a conservative attorney. In Trump’s last year in office, she acted as the director of the White House Domestic Policy Council.

Before her Washington involvement, Rollins, born in Texas, worked as an aide for Rick Perry during his time as Trump’s Energy Secretary. She also led the Texas Public Policy Foundation, a conservative think tank in Texas.

As Secretary of Agriculture, Rollins will have significant influence over American dietary habits and financial aspects for both urban and rural residents. The Department of Agriculture is involved in trade negotiations, provides dietary guidance, ensures food safety, and supports rural broadband, among other responsibilities.

In her role, Rollins will also offer advice to the administration on clean fuel tax incentives for biofuels, especially as the industry looks to expand with sustainable aviation fuel production.