Members of Congress are urged to investigate President Donald Trump’s plan to import a substantial amount of foreign beef. This plan intends to lower grocery store costs but faces criticism from farm-state lawmakers and the nation’s ranchers.

The proposal allows for the importation of up to 300,000 metric tons of lean beef trimmings, tariff-free, from an unspecified country. This would occur over a 90-day period starting September 1. Trump claims this will lead to a 25% reduction in current market prices.

John Boyd, founder and president of the National Black Farmers Association, calls for an emergency hearing on the issue. He believes the plan risks bankrupting many ranchers and raises public safety concerns.

The plan is seen as a significant betrayal, especially given the previous support Trump received from farmers. “It’s almost calling the American cattlemen stupid,” Boyd said.

White House Spokeswoman Anna Kelly defended Trump’s efforts to support American agriculture. She cited various initiatives, including new trade deals and creating rural opportunity zones.

An ‘In-Your-Face’ Betrayal

Boyd, a farmer in Virginia, criticizes the administration’s previous efforts to reduce domestic prices by importing beef. He states that Trump’s plan will undercut domestic ranchers, most unable to absorb a 25% loss from their herds.

Boyd raises concerns over the beef’s origin, with Argentina being considered a potential supplier. Trump has promised high-quality beef imports but hasn’t specified the source country.

Widespread frustration exists in the agricultural industry and among politicians from farming states. Zippy Duvall, President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, expressed disappointment over Trump’s plan to increase beef imports.

Senator Tim Sheehy, a Republican from Montana, criticized the decision’s potential harm to ranchers, many of whom are Trump supporters. He noted that this move could challenge efforts to rebuild herds and reduce prices for Americans.

Will Trump’s Beef Deal Bring Down Prices?

The U.S. beef market faces challenges like drought, high input costs, and herd liquidation. These have increased beef prices, with ground beef rising by about 24% to $6.89 per pound.

Despite Trump’s efforts to reduce beef prices and support domestic growth, experts doubt the plan’s effectiveness. Ben Spell of Good Ranchers labels the proposal as temporary relief. Sylvain Charlebois notes limited benefits, forecasting a modest and uneven impact.

Contact with Newsweek editors Daniel Orton and Cristina Diciu was provided for further insights.