UPDATE: The ongoing dispute between former President Donald Trump and America’s cattle ranchers escalated on July 15, 2023, with rancher Craig Bieber labeling Trump “delusional” during a live segment on MSNBC’s “The Weekend.” This confrontation follows Trump’s controversial claims regarding the recent surge in beef prices, attributing the ranchers’ success to his administration’s tariffs.
On Wednesday, Trump posted on Truth Social that the cattle industry owes its improved fortunes to his imposition of tariffs on cattle imports, including a staggering 50% tariff on Brazil. He asserted, “If it weren’t for me, they would be doing just as they’ve done for the past 20 years — Terrible!” Trump also urged ranchers to lower prices, emphasizing the importance of consumer interests in his economic considerations.
Bieber, who serves as the vice president of the South Dakota Cattleman’s Beef Association, was quick to push back against Trump’s assertions. “I think the president is delusional in the fact that, I mean, he had anything to do with these markets,” Bieber stated emphatically. He argued that the cattle market was already on an upward trajectory due to several years of drought that reduced the cow herd and created a natural shortage.
“Almost everybody in the industry that was aware knew this was coming,” Bieber elaborated, suggesting that Trump’s influence on the market was overstated. He firmly stated, “The tariffs didn’t have anything to do with where we were at from a market standpoint.”
This exchange highlights a significant rift between the former president and agricultural leaders, raising questions about the actual factors contributing to the beef price increases. As the situation develops, ranchers across the nation are likely to continue voicing their concerns about the implications of Trump’s statements on their livelihoods.
With the cattle market significantly impacting the economy and consumer prices, this debate is poised to resonate beyond the ranching community. As ranchers prepare for potential repercussions from Trump’s rhetoric, the need for clear communication and understanding within the industry becomes increasingly vital.
Stay tuned for further updates on this unfolding story as ranchers and industry experts continue to respond to Trump’s claims.
