Story perspectives

Beef Price Surge Blamed on Immigrants, Critics Push Back

11/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claimed rising beef prices result from migrants bringing diseased cattle from South America.
He linked a screwworm outbreak in Mexico to mass immigration and argued it is responsible.
Critics dismissed his comments as unfounded, noting a lack of supporting evidence.
Economists say the price surge stems from tariffs and long-term cattle shortages and drought.
Bessent's remarks drew ridicule on social media, with many questioning their validity.

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Story summary

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claimed rising beef prices result from migrants bringing diseased cattle from South America.
He linked a screwworm outbreak in Mexico to mass immigration and argued it is responsible.
Critics dismissed his comments as unfounded, noting a lack of supporting evidence.
Economists say the price surge stems from tariffs and long-term cattle shortages and drought.
Bessent's remarks drew ridicule on social media, with many questioning their validity.