John Rich Takes On New Role in Trump Administration as Special Envoy for American Landowners

Country star John Rich is taking on a new role outside of music after being appointed Special Envoy for American Landowners by the Trump administration.

Rich shared the news with fans on social media earlier this week.

“President Trump has afforded me the great honor to serve in his administration as the ‘Special Envoy for American Landowners,’” he wrote on X. “In this role, I look forward to representing and advocating for landowners’ rights against any entity that chooses to harass or intimidate them in an effort to achieve goals contrary to those of the President. I look forward to defending our farmers and ranchers.”  

In his new role as Special Envoy, Rich will champion the interests of America’s farmers, ranchers, and private landowners, working to make sure their voices are represented and their property rights remain protected. He will connect directly with landowners nationwide and help address concerns surrounding government regulations, advocacy group efforts, and other outside influences that could impact rural communities and private land ownership.

President Trump has afforded me the great honor to serve in his administration as the "Special Envoy for American Landowners." In this role, I look forward to representing and advocating for landowners’ rights against any entity that chooses to harass or intimidate them in an…

— John Rich🇺🇸 (@johnrich) June 8, 2026

A major part of his mission will involve supporting landowners navigating issues related to large-scale solar and wind energy projects that may affect farmland, ranchland, and rural ways of life. Working alongside USDA leadership and industry stakeholders, Rich will advocate for landowners and ensure they have a seat at the table when decisions about their land and communities are being made.

Secretary Brooke Rollins, the 33rd US Secretary of Agriculture, welcomed Trump’s appointment.

“America’s farmers, ranchers, and landowners are among the greatest stewards of our nation’s resources and the backbone of our rural communities,” Secretary Rollins shared. “President Trump understands that private property rights are fundamental to the American way of life. John Rich has long been a champion for rural America, and I look forward to working alongside him as we continue fighting for the people who feed, fuel, and clothe our nation.” 

The appointment to Special Envoy comes after John Rich fought against the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to protect land and farmers in parts of Tennessee. 

Rich has never shied away from sharing his beliefs or political opinions.

“I could give you the tough guy answer and say, I didn’t care what they thought. That’s not true,” Rich previously shared when reflecting on the reaction to his outspoken views. 

“At one point, I had to kind of look at the back and forth of that whole scenario and say, ‘Well, is the music industry’s approval of me more important to me than my right to free speech?’” Rich questioned. 

For him, the opinion of his family, especially his sons, is what matters most. And if he faces backlash, then so be it.  

“I don’t know what the fallout’s going to be. But I’d rather say what I want to say, be an actual American. And if there’s a bloody nose to take, then I guess I’ll take it. And I did take a lot of bloody noses and still do.”