June 8, 2026

USDA Secretary Rollins Defends Screwworm Response Amid Bipartisan Criticism

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins described the New World Screwworm as a 'little pest,' contrasting her previous characterization of it as 'terrifying' as it spreads in the U.S.
Six cases of screwworm have been detected in Texas and New Mexico, prompting the USDA to implement containment measures including releasing sterile flies and establishing quarantine zones.
Rollins has faced bipartisan criticism, with Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and Democrats blaming the administration's policies for the outbreak and rising beef prices.