Brooke Appleton, a distinguished alumnus from the first Trump administration, has been appointed as the USDA’s deputy undersecretary for farm production and conservation. With a background as the vice president of public policy for the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) over the past six years, Appleton brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. Her appointment comes as part of a larger restructuring within the USDA, with Richard Fordyce nominated to be the undersecretary for farm production and conservation.

Fordyce, a Missouri farmer who previously ran the USDA’s Farm Service Agency during the first Trump administration, is awaiting confirmation by the Senate for his new role. Together, Fordyce and Appleton will oversee key agencies within the USDA, including the Farm Service Agency, Risk Management Agency, and Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Appleton’s background in agricultural policy and government affairs is extensive. Prior to her role at NCGA, she served as chief of staff to the deputy agriculture secretary for over a year during the first Trump administration. She also spent two years as director of public policy and political strategy at NCGA, focusing on transportation and conservation policy areas.

Before her time at NCGA, Appleton worked at the National Association of Wheat Growers as the director of government affairs for risk management. Her career began on Capitol Hill, where she served as a legislative assistant for then-House Agriculture Committee member Sam Graves, covering a wide range of agriculture, trade, environment, and immigration issues. She later worked as a professional staff member on the House Small Business Committee, supporting Chairman Graves on agriculture and environment matters.

Appleton’s diverse background and deep understanding of agricultural policy make her a valuable asset to the USDA in her new role. Her experience in both the private sector and government positions her well to navigate the complex challenges facing the agriculture industry today.

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