Dems ask Trump USDA pick who will do ‘backbreaking’ farming amid mass deportations

Democratic lawmakers are expressing concerns about the impact of President Donald Trump’s mass deportation initiative on American farms. According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s National Agricultural Workers Survey, approximately 40% of crop farmworkers are not approved to work in the U.S., raising questions about who will fill these essential roles in the agricultural industry.

During a confirmation hearing for Brooke Rollins, Trump’s pick to lead the Agriculture Department, senators raised the issue of mass deportation and its potential implications for the farming workforce. Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois questioned whether the administration would target immigrant farmers, leading to a shortage of labor in the agricultural sector.

Rollins expressed her support for the president’s vision of border security and mass deportation, but also promised to defend American farmers and ranchers. However, she was unable to provide a clear answer when asked if federal agents would target farms with immigrant labor.

The Trump administration has signaled a tough stance on border security and illegal immigration, with plans to expedite deportations of undocumented immigrants. Democratic senators like Peter Welch of Vermont and Adam Schiff of California raised concerns about the impact of mass deportation on farms, noting that Americans are less willing to work in the challenging conditions of the agricultural industry.

Schiff pointed out that half of California’s farm workforce is undocumented and questioned how farmers would cope if their workforce was significantly reduced. Rollins pledged to work with the committee and the Labor Department to address these challenges and ensure that farmers have the support they need.

Lawmakers also expressed worries about the potential consequences of Trump’s tariff policies on farmers. The administration’s plan to impose tariffs on imported goods could lead to retaliatory tariffs from countries like China, causing financial strain on farmers who rely on international markets.

Rollins assured lawmakers that she would prioritize the needs of agricultural communities and work tirelessly to support them through these challenges. With her background in the Trump administration and experience in policy development, Rollins is poised to take on the responsibilities of leading the Agriculture Department and addressing the complex issues facing American farmers.

In conclusion, Democratic lawmakers are closely monitoring the impact of Trump’s mass deportation initiative and tariff policies on American farms. The agricultural industry plays a vital role in the economy, and it is essential to ensure that farmers have the support and resources they need to thrive. Rollins’ confirmation as the head of the Agriculture Department signals a commitment to addressing these challenges and working towards solutions that benefit both farmers and the agricultural industry as a whole.