UPDATE: Tensions rise as South Dakota cattle rancher Craig Bieber publicly challenges former President Donald Trump, labeling him “delusional” over his recent comments regarding beef prices. The heated exchange aired on MSNBC’s “The Weekend” on October 14, 2023, following Trump’s controversial post on Truth Social that claimed tariffs he imposed were the reason for the current success of American cattle ranchers.
In a post made on October 11, 2023, Trump stated, “The Cattle Ranchers, who I love, don’t understand that the only reason they are doing so well, for the first time in decades, is because I put tariffs on cattle coming into the United States, including a 50% tariff on Brazil.” He further asserted, “If it weren’t for me, they would be doing just as they’ve done for the past 20 years — Terrible!”
Bieber, the vice president of the South Dakota Cattleman’s Beef Association, was quick to respond to Trump’s remarks during the live broadcast. “I think the president is delusional in the fact that, I mean, he had anything to do with these markets,” he stated emphatically. Bieber pointed out that the cattle market’s upswing is a result of years of drought leading to a diminished cow herd, which was anticipated by industry experts.
With the cattle industry facing significant challenges in recent years, Bieber emphasized that the current market dynamics were not influenced by the former president’s tariffs. “We were headed into these markets because we’d had a number of years of tough years with drought,” he explained. “Almost everybody in the industry that was aware knew this was coming.”
This exchange highlights a growing rift between Trump and agricultural leaders, raising questions about the political implications for ranchers and the broader agricultural community. As the beef market experiences fluctuations, ranchers must navigate both the economic landscape and the political rhetoric surrounding their livelihoods.
As the situation develops, stakeholders in the cattle industry are watching closely for any further statements from Trump and the potential impact on beef pricing and supply chains. With consumers increasingly concerned about food prices, ranchers are urging a focus on sustainable practices that benefit both producers and consumers alike.
Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story as the debate over tariffs and beef prices continues to unfold.
