Rep. Vasquez Secures Unanimous, Bipartisan Support to Protect New Mexico Ranchers from Argentinian Beef Imports

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 3, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) secured unanimous, bipartisan support in the House Agriculture Committee for his Farm Bill amendment condemning the Administration’s push to prioritize Argentinian beef imports at the expense of our American cattle ranchers.

Adopted unanimously by both sides of the aisle during the Committee’s debate on the 2026 Farm Bill, Rep. Vasquez’s amendment acknowledges that any trade deal that favors beef imports from Argentina “is detrimental to domestic ranchers, cattle producers, and cattle markets.” The measure also directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to produce a report on how increased imports of Argentinian beef harm U.S. ranchers, cattle prices, and rural economies.

“Our ranchers are tough. But in recent years, ranchers have faced a host of headwinds — New World Screwworm, severe drought, tariffs, wildfire and rising input costs — that are all squeezing profits and forcing premature livestock sales,” said Rep. Vasquez. “I’ve spoken directly with ranchers in my district who have said these Argentinian beef imports are a slap in the face to their hard work and heritage and won’t bring down beef prices at the grocery store.”

WATCH THE CLIP HERE

Vasquez earned bipartisan support from the Republican Chairman of the Agriculture Committee, G.T. Thompson. “I thank the gentleman from New Mexico for offering this amendment,” said Chairman Thompson. “We must always strive to support U.S. cattle ranchers above all else, which is why I’m happy to support this amendment.”

Ranchers across southern New Mexico have raised concerns that increased imports would not bring down prices at the grocery store and could further squeeze domestic producers already struggling with higher costs and environmental challenges.

Rep. Vasquez’s amendment reflects growing bipartisan concern about protecting U.S. cattle growers and ensuring trade policies do not harm domestic agriculture. It also builds on his long record of fighting for American ranchers. In 2024, Vasquez adamantly opposed the Biden administration’s push to import beef from Paraguay. No matter the political party, Vasquez is fully committed to fighting for American ranchers. 

“Let’s support our own ranchers and put a stop to harmful trade policies that leave American ranchers in the dust,” Vasquez said.

###