Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has long been a vocal advocate for reforming America’s food and agriculture policies. His ambitious “Make America Healthy Again” agenda includes tackling the entrenched influence of sugar, soybean, and corn commodity groups that he argues contribute to the nation’s chronic health crises.
When Donald Trump became president-elect, Kennedy saw a potential ally to advance his vision. However, the ensuing power struggle over the selection of the Secretary of Agriculture highlighted the deep divisions within the Republican Party and the influence of established agricultural interests.
Kennedy’s Push for a Reform-Minded Agriculture Secretary
Kennedy invested significant time lobbying Trump to nominate an Agriculture Secretary aligned with his reformist vision. He personally endorsed candidates like Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), a staunch critic of federal farm subsidies, and Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, who shares Kennedy’s skepticism of big agriculture. Both candidates represented a departure from traditional agricultural policies, which prioritize subsidies and large-scale production.
Despite Kennedy’s efforts, the powerful agriculture lobby pushed back. Groups representing sugar, soybean, and corn industries, which have close ties to the Republican Party, lobbied Trump’s transition team to steer clear of Kennedy-aligned candidates. Their influence proved decisive in shaping Trump’s decision.
Trump’s Surprise Pick: Brooke Rollins
Instead of Kennedy’s preferred candidates, Trump selected Brooke Rollins, a former White House aide and co-founder of the Trump-aligned America First Policy Institute, to head the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Rollins’ appointment came as a surprise, given her limited experience in agriculture policy. Although she holds a degree in agricultural development, her professional background has focused on domestic policy and think-tank leadership rather than the intricacies of farm and food policy.
Rollins’ selection was a relief for conservative agricultural groups wary of Kennedy’s reformist agenda. As one GOP lawmaker remarked, “RFK may have broad discretion at HHS, but I have every expectation that Secretary Rollins will be the one actually calling the shots at USDA.”
The Limits of Kennedy’s Influence
Kennedy’s appointment to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) granted him significant oversight of medical and food policy through agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, many of his proposed reforms—such as overhauling farm subsidies and reshaping the nation’s agricultural framework—fall outside the jurisdiction of HHS and rest squarely with the USDA.
This structural limitation underscores the challenges Kennedy faces in implementing his vision. Even with the president’s support, altering the foundations of U.S. agriculture policy requires collaboration with the USDA and Congress, where entrenched interests hold considerable sway.
A Tense Power Struggle
Behind the scenes, Kennedy and his allies have sought to influence lower-level appointments at the USDA. These efforts have sometimes spilled into public view, with figures like Nicole Shanahan, Kennedy’s former vice-presidential running mate, openly advocating for Kennedy-aligned appointees. However, Rollins, described as a “savvy operator,” is expected to assert her authority over such decisions.
Despite her lack of direct experience, Rollins enjoys strong support from Republicans on Capitol Hill and is expected to have a relatively smooth Senate confirmation process. Her ties to Trump and reputation as a loyal advocate for his agenda further solidify her position.
Implications for U.S. Agriculture
Rollins’ leadership at the USDA will have far-reaching implications for America’s food system. The agency oversees a $430 billion annual budget and 100,000 employees, influencing every aspect of the $1.5 trillion agriculture industry. Her stance on key issues like farm subsidies and international trade will shape the future of U.S. agriculture, particularly as the sector grapples with challenges like climate change, market volatility, and labor shortages.
Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, while ambitious, faces significant obstacles. His critique of corporate agriculture resonates with many Americans concerned about health and sustainability. However, the resistance from powerful industry groups and Republican lawmakers underscores the difficulty of achieving systemic change in a deeply entrenched system.
Conclusion
The battle over the USDA leadership reflects broader tensions within U.S. agriculture policy. On one side are reformists like Kennedy, who advocate for a healthier, more sustainable food system. On the other are established agricultural interests, which prioritize economic stability and traditional practices. As Brooke Rollins takes the helm at the USDA, the direction of America’s food and agriculture policy hangs in the balance.
Kennedy’s influence, while substantial, is limited by the complex interplay of politics, industry, and bureaucracy. The coming years will reveal whether his vision for a healthier America can gain traction or whether the status quo will prevail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s stance on U.S. agriculture policy?
Kennedy advocates for reforming U.S. agriculture policy to prioritize public health. He criticizes subsidies for sugar, soybean, and corn industries, arguing they contribute to obesity and chronic health issues.
2. Who is Brooke Rollins, and why was she chosen as Agriculture Secretary?
Brooke Rollins is a former White House aide and co-founder of the America First Policy Institute. Despite her limited experience in agriculture policy, she was chosen for her loyalty to Trump and alignment with conservative agriculture groups.
3. How does the USDA influence U.S. agriculture?
The USDA oversees a $430 billion budget and plays a central role in shaping farm subsidies, food safety, and rural development, impacting every facet of the $1.5 trillion U.S. agriculture industry.
4. What challenges does Kennedy face in implementing his agenda?
Kennedy’s reforms require collaboration with the USDA and Congress, where entrenched agricultural interests and Republican lawmakers pose significant obstacles.
5. What are the potential impacts of Rollins’ leadership at the USDA?
Rollins’ policies will shape the future of U.S. agriculture, influencing issues like subsidies, trade, and sustainability. Her leadership is expected to align with conservative priorities, offering stability to traditional agriculture groups.