Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins is encouraging Americans to look for alternative protein sources as beef prices rise sharply.
During her appearance on The Benny Show, Rollins, who leads the U.S. Department of Agriculture under President Trump, was asked by host Benny Johnson about the soaring beef prices consumers are facing and what actions the administration is considering.
Johnson mentioned an earlier conversation Rollins had with Trump before going live, suggesting he had insights into Trump’s concerns.
“I know that Trump called you about the price of a Big Mac,” Johnson noted, adding that he was also worried about beef prices.
He conveyed that Trump seemed “very concerned” and valued the president’s attention to the issue, pushing Rollins for more details on the administration’s plans regarding beef costs.
“What are we going to do about American beef? Nobody likes these pricey steaks at $20 a pound. It’s like gas prices—just not good,” Johnson remarked.
Rollins countered Johnson’s portrayal of her conversation with Trump, asserting the call wasn’t centered on beef prices.
“Interestingly, for the first time in, I think, six months, that was not the focus of his call,” Rollins stated.
She clarified that Trump had actually called her to discuss an issue involving international relations and efforts to increase fertilizer supplies, but acknowledged they do talk about beef prices.
Returning to the issue, Rollins pointed out various elements influencing beef pricing. She highlighted that beef prices are down by 5 percent, indicating a positive trend.
Furthermore, she claimed that during the Biden administration, beef prices surged nearly 30 percent.
Brooke Rollins: If beef is too expensive, you can eat chicken, eggs, other great sources of protein. pic.twitter.com/QpmH1fH6uK
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She explained that growing the nation’s cattle population is a lengthy process, taking time for breeding and raising livestock before they can be processed. Rollins also mentioned challenges like the spread of New World screwworm along the southern border, while noting that demand for beef continues to be high.
If the prices remain prohibitive, Rollins suggested other protein options. “But if it is too expensive, unlike fuel, Benny, you can eat chicken, pork, salmon, eggs; there are other good protein sources, and all of those prices are decreasing,” she remarked.
“I’m a mom of four, feeding a bunch of hungry kids, so I get it,” she acknowledged. “We know grocery prices are high, and we’re working hard to reduce them after the inflation struggles from the Biden years, and I believe we’re making headway.”
“I’m genuinely proud of that,” Rollins expressed. “Cheaper, better beef is coming soon.”
“America excels in this area, and we’re committed to supporting American ranchers and encouraging them to continue rebuilding their herds,” she concluded.
