Trump directs legal docs for self-slaughter

President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he is directing the preparation of legal documents to allow farmers and ranchers to process their own food, a move aimed at challenging the dominance of the four major companies that control the vast majority of U.S. meat processing. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated he was taking action to break what he called a "nasty Monopoly," asserting that the current system makes life miserable for producers.

The announcement targets an industry where, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, four firms-Cargill, Tyson Foods, JBS USA, and National Beef Packing Company-handle approximately 85 percent of all steer and heifer purchases. This consolidation has long been a point of contention for independent ranchers, who argue it limits their market options and bargaining power. Under current federal law, farmers may slaughter livestock for personal use, but commercial sales generally require meat to pass through federally inspected facilities.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins confirmed the administration's plans, stating on social media that her department would begin rolling out initiatives on Monday. These are expected to...