Impact of Rising Beef Prices in Texas During the Election Season

The cost of living has become a significant concern for many voters as the 2026 midterm elections approach. In Texas, beef prices provide insight into the economic landscape. Ground beef reached a peak price of approximately $7 per pound in August, an increase of about $1.50 since the beginning of President Trump’s second term.

Russell Boening, a fourth-generation cattle rancher near Floresville, Texas, shares that rising fuel costs are impacting multiple aspects of his operations. These costs influence everything from fertilizer to seed expenses. Boening also experiences the effects of drought, which, combined with other factors, has reduced the beef supply. Yet, consumer demand remains high.

In an effort to decrease prices, the Trump administration eliminated tariffs on certain foreign imports of ground beef. Boening acknowledges that if the policy succeeds in reducing prices, he is supportive. However, he notes that the decision affects his short-term pricing. He shares that some farmers who sold cattle after the tariff removal experienced losses ranging from $400 to $500 per head. As president of the Texas Farm Bureau, Boening concludes, “We don’t think it was effective. Hopefully, we learn from it. We move forward. And we let this supply and demand scenario work itself out.”

An American Farm Bureau Federation analysis indicated that ground beef prices only decreased by about 2% in the weeks following the tariff changes.

Consumers in Seguin, Texas, share similar feelings. At HEB, a grocery chain store, shoppers express that although prices are high, the quality is worth the expense. Sheri Moczygemba prefers paying more for beef over saving money on less-preferred options.

Ernest Servantes, co-owner of Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin, sees minimal profits as brisket prices reach $38 per pound. Despite this, he remains unworried due to a high demand, evidenced by a two-hour wait for a table on a recent Saturday.

Servantes remarks, “These consumers understand the value of their dollar, and they want more bang for their buck. Sometimes it’s not about the quantity. It’s the quality.”

While the Texas Farm Bureau supports Republican Senate and governor candidates, individuals like Servantes remain undecided. Their votes will focus on candidates promising aid to the middle class and small business owners.

To explore the full reporting, click the blue button above. The radio interview was produced by Iman Maani and edited by Adam Bearne. Suzanne Nuyen edited the digital version.