Brooke Rollins: Leading Change at the USDA in 2025
Brooke Rollins has emerged as a pivotal figure in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) during a time of significant transformation. Her leadership style, commitment to staff support, and dedication to transparent communication are steering the USDA through a critical era. Learn how her approach impacts agricultural workers, policy, and the future of the department.
Brooke Rollins: A New Era at the USDA
As Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins is responsible for a workforce and mission that touches every American. In 2025, she faces the challenge of restructuring the USDA amid budget limitations and shifting priorities. Rollins emphasizes that the department's changes are not as drastic as some headlines suggest.
In a recent Agri-Pulse interview, Rollins confirmed that about 15,000 employees participated in the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP), a voluntary buyout. This program, although significant, is part of a larger attrition trend within the USDA. The department typically sees 8,000 to 10,000 employees leave each year. According to Rollins, the current changes aim to "right-size" the USDA without severely disrupting service to farmers and rural communities.
Supporting Frontline Staff and Forest Service Workers
One of Brooke Rollins' top priorities is protecting and empowering frontline employees. This includes Farm Service Agency (FSA) staff and Forest Service wildland firefighters. Rollins has made it clear that none of the recent buyout offers were extended to these critical groups. She also signed a memorandum that protects these teams from budget or hiring freezes. "We have put a huge effort on ensuring that those remain fully staffed, and in fact become better staff," Rollins stated in her Agri-Pulse appearance.
Furthermore, Rollins reassured stakeholders that there is "not [a] plan to close any of the 4,500 FSA field offices." Instead, she highlighted that USDA is investing in online assistance tools, making it easier for farmers and ranchers to access help without traveling to field offices (source).
Rehiring and Departmental Flexibility
Brooke Rollins isn't closing the door for employees who left during the early rounds of buyouts. In an NPR interview, she explained that USDA would consider bringing back workers who departed under the DRP, especially if their expertise is needed in the future. This flexible approach is designed to replenish institutional knowledge while adapting to evolving needs.
The Path Forward: Transparency and Communication
Throughout these changes, Brooke Rollins remains committed to open communication with agricultural stakeholders and employees. By providing updates, seeking feedback, and emphasizing that the reorganization is less severe than expected, she aims to maintain trust within the USDA community. Rollins' vision focuses on efficiency, effectiveness, and continuity of essential services.
Conclusion
Brooke Rollins' leadership at the USDA showcases strategic planning and a strong commitment to frontline staff. By managing change thoughtfully and supporting critical roles, she is shaping the future of American agriculture. As the USDA continues to evolve, Rollins' transparent approach and ability to balance reform with service are key to building a resilient department.