NEW: Trump asks DOJ to investigate meat packing companies using 'illicit collusion, price fixing, and price manipulation'

President Donald Trump has asked that the Department of Justice investigate the meatpacking industry over rising meat prices. He accused the companies of driving up the prices with collusion, price fixing, and other means.

"I have asked the DOJ to immediately begin an investigation into the Meat Packing Companies who are driving up the price of Beef through Illicit Collusion, Price Fixing, and Price Manipulation. We will always protect our American Ranchers, and they are being blamed for what is being done by Majority Foreign Owned Meat Packers, who artificially inflate prices, and jeopardize the security of our Nation’s food supply. Action must be taken immediately to protect Consumers, combat Illegal Monopolies, and ensure these Corporations are not criminally profiting at the expense of the American People. I am asking the DOJ to act expeditiously. Thank you for your attention to this matter!"

Attorney General Pam Bondi responded to the message from Trump, "Our investigation is underway! My Antitrust Division led by @AAGSlater has taken the lead in partnership with our friend Secretary Rollins at @USDA."

In a follow up post to Truth Social, Trump wrote, "While Cattle Prices have dropped substantially, the price of Boxed Beef has gone up — Therefore, you know that something is “fishy.” We will get to the bottom of it very quickly. If there is criminality, those people responsible will pay a steep price!"

The president did not mention names of any individual meat packing companies. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins responded to the post from Bondi: "Let's get to work."