President Donald Trump said he is directing that legal papers be prepared so farmers and ranchers can process food themselves. He blamed a small set of large packing firms for dominating the trade and creating lasting hardship for producers, whom he called a leading concern and praised for diligence, skill, and cleanliness. He said the step should proceed without delay.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins answered that American ranchers raise outstanding beef and that feeding and fueling the country is a security issue. She said the department will start Monday by withdrawing old instructions, easing processing paperwork, adding tools for quicker safety results, widening interstate sales, and increasing help for smaller plants.