They Came for the Contracts—And the Consultant Took It Raw!

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has axed millions in contracts, including $230,000 for a “Brazilian forest and gender consultant.” Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced on Friday that 78 contracts, totaling over $132 million, were terminated following a cost-cutting review.

The Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) conducted the review, aiming to curb wasteful spending. “I welcome DOGE’s efforts at USDA because we know that its work makes us better, stronger, faster, and more efficient. I will expect full access and transparency to DOGE in the days and weeks to come,” said Rollins.

The terminated contracts include:

$374,000 for a DEI onboarding specialist
$254,000 for diversity dialogue workshops
$298,000 for underrepresented community development
$229,000 for a Brazilian forest and gender consultant
$121,000 for a women’s forest carbon mentorship program
$29,000 for a Central American gender assessment consultant

Rollins previously issued a memo ending all DEI programs within the USDA, advocating for a shift to “unity, equality, and meritocracy.” As a result, 948 employee trainings were canceled—758 focusing on DEI, with others addressing environmental justice and gender ideology.

Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins speaks to members of the press outside the White House in Washington, D.C., on February 14, 2025. (Getty Images)

Additional cuts include:

$91,000 for a program supporting women’s climate adaptation initiatives
$33,000 for a neighborhood electric utility vehicle
$11,000 for a Hawaii conference room rental for a biodiversity meeting

A major cost reduction involved eliminating $277 million in media contracts, including POLITICO Pro subscriptions. POLITICO noted most Pro subscribers are from the private sector.

Brooke Rollins speaks to members of the media outside the White House in Washington, D.C., on Friday, Feb. 14, 2025. (Getty Images)

Rollins remains firm on redirecting USDA resources, emphasizing efficiency and eliminating what she calls “unnecessary spending.” With over 1,000 contracts still under review, Rollins has vowed to ensure every dollar aligns with the USDA’s core mission.