May Is Beef Month Across The US

The resolution was introduced by Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE)

Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a

resolution to designate 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<https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RIL26416.pdf>.