Beef Prices Will Rise Further Due to ICE Raids: Texas Ranchers
Cattle groups say ICE operations are disrupting the beef supply chain and could drive prices even higher.
Cattle industry associations in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas have cautioned that recent immigration enforcement operations across these states are disrupting the beef supply chain. According to a joint statement released on September 24 by the Kansas Livestock Association, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, and Texas Cattle Feeders Association, the enforcement activity is causing delays in shipments and resulting in millions of dollars in losses and additional costs.
The groups reported that thousands of cattle scheduled for shipment to processors were delayed, leading to workforce disruptions at feedyards, dairies, processors, feed and grain companies, transportation hubs, and community services. They warned that these disruptions will likely lead to higher beef prices for consumers. Currently, the average price of 100 percent ground beef in the U.S. is $6.92 per pound, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
President Donald Trump has faced increasing criticism over his administration's beef policies as consumers grapple with high prices. His approval ratings have also declined in several major beef-producing states, including Trump's strongholds in the 2024 election. The Department of Justice is currently investigating beef pricing at eight major retailers, including Walmart.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) refuted claims that ICE is conducting worksite operations in Kansas, stating that they are focused on targeting "heinous criminals including murderers, rapists, and drug traffickers" as well as illegal aliens with final orders of removal. They cited recent ICE arrests in Kansas, including individuals convicted of cruelty toward children, homicide, aggravated assault, kidnapping, sexual assault, and escape from custody.
The cattle industry groups urge federal officials to conduct immigration enforcement in a "lawful, orderly, and transparent manner," while respecting due process and communicating clearly with employers and communities affected by enforcement activity. The recent drop in U.S. cattle slaughter to around 90,000 head, down from 107,000 the previous week, highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the cattle and beef supply chain.
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