Ricketts Designates May as Beef Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a resolution todesignate May 2026 as Beef Month in America. Ricketts is a longtime champion - and enjoyer - of Nebraska beef. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), James Lankford (R-OK), and Roger Marshall (R-KS) cosponsored this resolution.

"Nebraska is the beef state. Last year, we led the nation with over $1.75 billion in beef exports. We lead the nation in commercial cattle slaughter, with over 6 million head. We have the top three beef-producing counties in the nation," said Senator Ricketts. "Nebraska's ranchers are the best in the world. They've shown it this year in response to this spring's devastating fires across the state. I'm confident they will rebuild and I'm grateful to honor them in the month of May."

"Minnesota cattle producers are vital for our agricultural economy, putting food on tables across our state and nationwide," said Senator Klobuchar. "Officially designating May as National Beef Month is a well-earned recognition of their hard work and dedication."

"Anyone who knows beef knows the best comes from Nebraska," said Senator Fischer. "Beef production is the largest part of our agriculture economy, and we lead the nation in every step from feeding to processing. I'm proud to join Senator Ricketts on this resolution to give our ranchers the recognition they deserve for putting high-quality beef on the table."

"We salute the American beef producers who persevere through any hardship, from high input costs to global competition, to supply families with high-quality beef. We also recognize the historic and ongoing importance of the cattle industry to our nation's development and economy," Senator Hyde-Smith said. "I'm also proud of Mississippi cattle growers and all they contribute to the wellbeing of my state."

"Beef is not just a staple on our tables, it is a cornerstone of Oklahoma's economy and way of life,"said Senator Lankford. "Our cattle producers work day in and day out to feed families across the country and keep rural communities strong. Recognizing National Beef Month is a chance to highlight their hard work, but it is also a reminder that we need policies that support them, not hold them back."

"Growing up a 5th-generation farm kid, I know firsthand that nobody raises better beef than Kansas,"said Senator Marshall. "Our ranchers work hard to provide delicious, nutritious beef to American families. I'm proud to celebrate them this month."

"The Livestock Marketing Association appreciates Senator Ricketts for recognizing National Beef Month by highlighting the important role that the cattle industry plays in rural communities, the national economy, and our food supply," said Lucas Simmer, Director of Government and Industry Affairs, Livestock Marketing Association.

"Nebraska's ranchers show up rain or shine-whether in the middle of a blizzard, during the heat of a drought, or the under the threat of wildfires. We don't just protect our herds, we feed the world," said Craig Uden, President, Nebraska Cattlemen. "We thank Senator Ricketts for recognizing our cattle producers and ensuring the world knows the true value of American beef."

The text of the resolution can be found here.