Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has taken a firm stance against the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) recent decision to allow beef imports from Paraguay. This opposition, made public on December 13, 2023, is in line with similar concerns expressed by agriculture leaders from Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

Commissioner Miller’s objection stems from the potential threat this decision poses to the Texas cattle industry and the broader U.S. agriculture sector. Texas, being the leading state in cattle production, contributes significantly to the national economy with approximately $16 billion in revenue from this industry alone.

The primary concern highlighted by Commissioner Miller is the risk of foot-and-mouth disease, a highly contagious virus among livestock. Paraguay’s history with this disease raises serious questions about the safety of importing their beef into the U.S. market. The reintroduction of such a disease could be catastrophic for Texas ranchers and the entire U.S. beef industry.

The Texas Nationalist Movement supports Commissioner Miller’s call for a halt on this decision. In line with TNM’s advocacy for Texas’ economic independence and self-determination, this stance is seen as essential in protecting the state’s agricultural interests. The risk posed by this USDA decision is a clear example of the need for more localized control and decision-making that aligns with Texas’ unique economic and agricultural context.

Commissioner Miller urges Secretary Vilsack to pause the implementation of this rule until a comprehensive and up-to-date risk assessment can be conducted by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This step is crucial in ensuring the safety and integrity of Texas’ and America’s agriculture.

In conclusion, the Texas Nationalist Movement stands with Commissioner Miller in this crucial matter, advocating for protecting Texas’ agricultural industry and supporting measures that reinforce our state’s economic strength and independence.