Trump Targets Meatpacking Monopolies in Bid to Curb Rising Costs

By Newsmax Wires | Saturday, 08 November 2025 06:43 PM EST

President Donald Trump’s push to investigate monopolistic practices in the meatpacking industry highlights his focus on addressing affordability challenges for American families, according to political strategist Dick Morris.

Morris told Newsmax’s “The Count” that many voters, even those with high incomes, feel financially strained due to unaffordable living expenses, including rent, education, and other essentials. He noted Trump’s directive for the Department of Justice to examine major meatpacking companies as a step toward tackling corporate monopolies driving up food costs.

“The meatpackers, not the workers, have made meat inaccessible to average consumers,” Morris said. He emphasized that four firms dominate U.S. meatpacking, with two controlling pork production, one of which is Chinese-owned. Trump recently demanded an investigation into companies he claims are inflating beef prices, despite record highs in 2025 caused by droughts and reduced cattle production.

Morris argued that consolidation in the industry has worsened affordability issues, with Tyson Foods, Cargill, JBS Foods, and National Beef Packing Co. controlling 80% of the market. He called for breaking monopolies to restore competition and lower prices.

He also criticized political leaders relying on inflation statistics, stating that “affordability” is the real concern. Morris drew parallels to former President George H.W. Bush’s defeat, warning Republicans to address voters’ economic realities. He cited New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani as an example of candidates appealing to frustration over unmet needs.