Oklahoma Senators Oppose President’s Beef Import Plan

Lankford and Mullin Say Beef Import Plan Threatens Local Ranchers

It doesn’t happen often — Oklahoma’s two U.S. senators standing together to criticize a decision by a Republican president. But this week, both James Lankford and Markwayne Mullin voiced sharp opposition to President Donald Trump’s proposal to import beef from Argentina in an attempt to lower consumer prices.

The senators argue that this move may reduce grocery costs temporarily, but it poses long-term economic harm to Oklahoma’s cattle producers and American ranchers. Their joint statement made clear they see the plan as a serious threat to rural livelihoods.

Senators Warn of Negative Impacts

In a joint release, they said, “This government intervention will cause tremendous negative impacts on Oklahoma and American beef producers.”

Both lawmakers said the proposal undermines the free market principles they support. They noted that ranchers in Oklahoma already face tough market conditions, including high feed costs, unpredictable weather, and fluctuating demand.

“Adding more foreign beef to the market only drives down prices for our producers,” they added.

Local Industry Response and Rural Concerns

Agriculture groups across Oklahoma echoed the senators’ warnings. Many cattlemen’s associations said the move would flood the market with foreign beef, making it harder for domestic ranchers to compete. They worry imported products may not meet the same animal health and safety standards as U.S. beef, creating consumer confidence issues.

“Every time Washington tries to manipulate the beef market, rural Oklahoma pays the price,” said one local rancher in Payne County. “We need support, not policies that reward foreign competitors.”

Push for Policy Reversal

Senators Lankford and Mullin are urging the President to reverse course, saying any benefit to consumers will come at the expense of Oklahoma’s agricultural base. They reminded voters that the state’s cattle industry remains one of its most important economic drivers, supporting thousands of families and businesses.

Both men reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Oklahoma agriculture and standing with local producers in the face of federal decisions they see as damaging.

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