The vote has been certified, Jan. 20^th is just around the corner and cattle prices have never been higher!

            The year 2025 promises to be a year like none other. Politically, we may see more change in a short period than we have seen in decades. Regardless of what side of the political spectrum you stand on, most would still agree that the federal deficit must be addressed in a significant way. One cannot curb double-digit inflation by simply printing more money. For rising costs to level out, or even go lower, we have to reduce spending.

            And Texas voters unanimously voted for a more secured border! Many traditional blue South Texas counties voted red for the first time in many years. The flood of humanity crossing our southern borders must be stopped. How do we pay for all the millions that have poured in from all over the world? Many ask how are we going to pay for sending back all the illegal immigrants? Others ask how are we going to keep paying for them to stay here?

            On a more positive note, cattle prices have continued to rise! Cattle numbers are still in short supply. Rebuilding the herd is going slower than most anticipated due to the rising costs that producers have faced, just to stay in business.

            Replacement females and bulls are at an all time premium. We are starting to hear about young commercial pairs selling in the low $5,000 range! Range bull prices in the fall broke the $8-10,000 range, which is not surprising when we see calves bringing $1,500-2,000. 

            The key to 2025 is to start seeing costs of production to level off or even lower some. Everything we touch, taste or smell costs more than ever before.

            We need our elected officials in Washington to do the right thing and get this spending in hand. And we need to hold them accountable. Because to simply point to where the waste is, is one thing. It takes a vote to stop it.