The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) released a statement from Chad F. Wolf regarding the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) decision to halt live animal imports through the southern border. Chad F. Wolf, Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer, and Chair of Homeland Security and Immigration Policy at AFPI, commented on this development.
Wolf said: "Secretary Rollins’ recent decision to suspend live cattle, horse, and bison imports from Mexico is a prudent and necessary step towards protecting America’s livestock industry and securing our southern border from a devastating pest: the New World Screwworm (NWS). This pest is not just a threat to livestock—it is a national security concern with respect to our food supply."
He further elaborated on the historical impact of this pest: "The last time this pest invaded America, it took 30 years for our livestock sector to recover." He noted that while the United States has attempted to collaborate with Mexico to control the spread of NWS, these efforts have been hindered by actions from the Mexican government. "Unfortunately, the Mexican government has undermined those efforts—limiting intervention actions needed to fight NWS," he said.
Wolf emphasized the risks posed by these challenges: "These actions put American ranchers, farmers, and taxpayers at risk." He expressed support for Secretary Rollins' measures and called for continued enforcement or escalation if necessary until more positive results are achieved in surveillance and eradication efforts.
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