White House turns to beef prices as midterm affordability concerns grow

President Donald Trump’s proposal to temporarily waive duties on 300,000 metric tons of imported beef reflects growing White House concern that high grocery prices could hurt Republicans in the November midterm elections. The administration says suppliers have agreed to a 25 percent discount that would be passed on to consumers.

The proposal angered farm-state Republicans, ranchers and agriculture groups, who said they were blindsided. Beef prices have continued rising as demand remains strong and the cattle supply sits near a decades-low level. Ground beef averaged $6.89 per pound last month, up from $6.75 in May and $5.55 when Trump returned to the White House.

The plan may not lower supermarket prices significantly before the election. Beef industry leaders are seeking details about the imports, and the proposal is expected to be followed by an executive order within two weeks.

Read the full story at Politico.