trump’s Argentina Beef Pledge Draws Fire From American Ranchers
WASHINGTON – American cattle ranchers are expressing outrage as former President Donald Trump moves forward with pledges to aid Argentina, including potentially opening the U.S. market to Argentinian beef – a move critics say will further destabilize an already stressed industry.The backlash comes amid historically low U.S. cattle numbers and rising beef prices, prompting accusations that Trump’s actions prioritize foreign interests over domestic producers.
Oren Lesmeister, a rancher and Democratic politician, asserted that Trump’s comments on social media demonstrate a lack of understanding of cattle industry economics. Lesmeister explained that current high prices are a result of a confluence of factors including prolonged droughts, an aging rancher population, and a shrinking national herd – currently at a 75-year low, according to the Agriculture Department. Consumer demand for beef has simultaneously increased by 9% over the past decade.
“Now, it doesn’t matter. It’s, ’What’s the president going to say tomorrow?'” Lesmeister said, highlighting the uncertainty Trump’s unpredictable statements create for ranchers navigating customary market influences like weather, production costs, and export demands. he added that he hopes ranchers recognize Democratic politicians are actively working to address industry monopolies, contrasting this with Trump’s approach.
The controversy centers on Trump’s vocal support for Argentinian President Javier Milei, whom he has praised at Mar-a-Lago last year and during a White House meeting this month.Trump has pledged $20 billion, and discussed increasing it to $40 billion, in aid to Argentina to stabilize its collapsing currency.
However, Argentina is a direct competitor to the U.S. in soybean and beef production. Reports indicate Argentina is increasing its soybean exports to China, which is simultaneously boycotting U.S. soybean purchases in response to Trump-imposed tariffs.
national Farmers Union President Rob Larew condemned the administration’s actions, stating, “The last thing we need is to reward them by importing more of their beef.” He argued that the Trump administration is already harming American agricultural producers while simultaneously bolstering Argentina’s economy.
