Immigration Enforcement Impact on the Cattle Industry

Cattle industry groups have raised concerns over immigration enforcement operations in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. These operations are reportedly disrupting the beef supply chain by delaying shipments and causing significant financial losses. The Department of Homeland Security clarified that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is not conducting worksite operations in Kansas. However, industry groups are closely monitoring ICE activities that impact agricultural communities.

The Kansas Livestock Association, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, and Texas Cattle Feeders Association issued a joint statement. They highlighted that thousands of cattle meant for processing face shipment delays, resulting in millions in lost revenue. Workforce disruptions affect feedyards, dairies, processors, and related enterprises. The associations emphasized that ICE operations are causing a chilling effect on legal workers critical to the cattle supply chain.

The disruptions contribute to rising beef prices for consumers. In August, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 100 percent ground beef averaged $6.92 per pound. President Donald Trump faces scrutiny over his administration’s beef policies amid high prices. This has affected his approval ratings in key beef-producing states.

Federal officials are investigating beef pricing at major retailers. The Department of Justice is reviewing practices at retailers like Walmart. Meanwhile, cattle groups acknowledge the need for immigration law enforcement but stress that sudden workforce disruptions could have severe consequences for animal welfare and the economy.

DHS Response

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security stated that ICE is not conducting worksite operations in Kansas. Recent ICE operations targeted serious criminals and illegal aliens with removal orders. Examples include the arrest of Flora Elvira De La Cruz Bustillos, convicted of cruelty and larceny in Kansas, and several others with serious criminal convictions.

Industry groups argue these disruptions add to existing pressures on the supply chain. They urge federal authorities to enforce immigration laws lawfully and transparently. Clear communication with affected employers and communities is essential.

Cattle slaughter in the U.S. was approximately 90,000 head on September 24, a drop from 107,000 the previous week. According to Reuters, enforcement actions caused absenteeism at meatpacking plants in Kansas, delaying cattle shipments.

A Newsweek analysis found a decrease in President Trump’s approval ratings in major beef-producing states. In Kansas, his net approval dropped significantly between January 2025 and August 2026. Newsweek further reported on recent measures, such as a temporary tariff-free beef import allowance, aiming to address high beef prices.