USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins used her platform at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation convention to issue a scathing critique of California's animal welfare laws while highlighting recent USDA accomplishments aimed at boosting farm incomes, opening markets, and restoring balance to the agricultural economy.

Speaking to thousands in Anaheim, California, Rollins blasted California's Proposition 12, calling the law an example of a state "going rogue" by enforcing livestock confinement rules that impact out-of-state farmers and violate the spirit of interstate commerce. "It's one thing for California to pass laws affecting its own people - another when it imposes those burdens on everyone else," she said. Rollins emphasized that the Trump administration is fighting the law in court, warning of its economic consequences for farmers and consumers alike.

In a wide-ranging policy address, Rollins outlined efforts to reverse the growing ag trade deficit, noting a drop from an estimated $50 billion under the Biden administration to a forecasted $37 billion in FY2026, thanks to aggressive outreach and new trade deals. She previewed "at least a dozen more agreements" expected to be announced soon, signaling USDA's intent to continue "hustling around the world" to open new markets.

Rollins also announced an $80 million USDA purchase of specialty crops - including almonds, pistachios, raisins, and grape juice - under Section 32 authority, to support growers and reduce oversupply. The move is part of a broader initiative to stimulate domestic demand, particularly for California producers affected by both market volatility and regulatory burdens.

Addressing renewable fuels, Rollins pushed Congress to finish what the administration began through regulatory waivers: pass national, year-round E15 ethanol legislation. "We've gone as far as we can regulatorily. Congress must now act. This is a win-win for farmers and consumers," she said, referencing potential for massive corn demand growth.

Rollins tied these federal priorities to broader support for rural America, citing the One Big Beautiful Bill signed last year as a comprehensive policy package that raised reference prices, improved crop insurance, and adjusted tax rules to help farmers stay viable. She also touched on labor reform, noting new H-2A rules aimed at reducing farm labor costs, and continued collaboration with the Department of Justice to crack down on anti-competitive practices by foreign-controlled agribusinesses.

Following her remarks, Rollins met with local leaders and farmers concerned about the planned removal of dams in Northern California's Potter Valley Project. The USDA formally petitioned the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to halt PG&E's license surrender, arguing the proposal fails to consider the region's critical ag and water infrastructure. "This may seem like a local issue, but I see it as one of the existential battles of our time," she said, vowing to fight for water access that sustains Western farmers.

Rollins ended her speech with a tribute to the late Rep. Doug LaMalfa, who advocated for Potter Valley farmers until his final days. "He was fighting for the very heart of our country, and he will be so desperately missed," she said.

Framing her policy agenda as a mission to put agriculture and rural communities first, Rollins called on Congress, regulators, and industry leaders to work together in restoring profitability, resilience, and pride across the U.S. ag sector.