Mobile Courant

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville engaged in a discussion with Brooke Rollins, President Trump's nominee for Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, during her confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. The hearing focused on Rollins' plans to enhance the global competitiveness of American agriculture, improve federal forest management, and support natural disaster assistance programs.

As Alabama's representative on the Senate Ag Committee, Tuberville emphasized his commitment to ensuring that Alabama's farmers have representation in the Trump administration.

During the hearing, Tuberville recalled past interactions with Rollins: "Mrs. Rollins, who would have ever known? Thirty years ago, I’m a young coach at Texas A&M, and you’re Student Body President."

Tuberville addressed concerns about commodity prices and the challenges faced by farmers: "You’re going to be awesome. But I don’t want to sugar coat this because my farmers back home are hurting." He highlighted issues such as rising input costs and foreign ownership of farmland.

Rollins acknowledged these challenges: "Yes sir," she responded when Tuberville mentioned difficulties faced by row croppers in Alabama.

The senator also raised concerns about trade deficits affecting commodity prices: "There’s a $45-billion-trade deficit in ag." He asked if Rollins would commit to dialogue with President Trump regarding improving crop prices for farmers.

Rollins affirmed her commitment: "Yes, I will, Senator. I so look forward to that."

Regarding federal forests, Tuberville stressed their economic importance: "Our forest industry in my state—$36 billion a year [in economic benefits]." Rollins responded by committing to hire an effective team for forest management under USDA Forest Service oversight.

Tuberville also discussed natural disaster relief delays: "It takes at least three years at times to get any kind of disaster relief." He urged improvements in response times for affected farmers.

Rollins agreed on the need for faster relief efforts: "I look forward to working with you to ensure that we do better—much much better than that."

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and serves on several committees including Armed Services and Agriculture.