For Immediate Release: June 26, 2025  

WASHINGTON — Today, President Donald J. Trump was joined by fifth-generation California cattle rancher and past California Cattlemen’s Association President Kevin Kester at the White House for a press conference highlighting the tax relief the “One Big Beautiful Bill” will provide for ranching and farming families across the country for future generations.

“It was an incredible honor to stand with President Trump and echo his message that America’s family farmers and ranchers need tax relief now,” Kester said. “When I was hit with the Death Tax 30 years ago, I couldn’t hire new employees, invest in equipment, or make improvements to the ranch. My family and I had to stretch every dollar and sacrifice basic purchases so that we could pay off that tax bill. To protect our food security and national security, we need to make sure no other farming family experiences that same burden, which is why Congress must pass the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ and deliver lasting tax relief.”

Because of his resilience, Kester still has the operation today and ranches alongside his family. His grandchildren represent the seventh generation of Kesters on the land.

“Increasing the estate and gift tax exemption has been a critical need for cattle producers for decades. Passing this tax package is one of the most important actions Congress can take to ensure the future of multi-generational family farms in our country,” California Cattlemen’s Association President and cattle rancher in Northern California Rick Roberti said. “Every rancher knows a farmer or rancher, like Kevin, who had to fight their hardest to keep their family operation due to the Death Tax. This has gone on far too long, for too many generations.”

To protect the future of thousands of family farms and ranches in America, Congress must act now and pass the pro-ranching tax provisions in the “One Big Beautiful Bill” without delay.

“Across the nation, farming and ranching families are thinking about how their cattle operation stays in business for future generations. Legislation that reduces the Death Tax, cuts taxes across the board, and helps farmers and ranchers keep more of their hard-earned money is how we keep America’s agricultural legacy going strong for future generations,” National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane said. “Cattle producers’ message to Congress is simple: pass the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’”The California Cattlemen’s Association thanks the President for highlighting this priority and for hosting Mr. Kester, a real cattle rancher and great leader, at the White House.

“It is encouraging to know the Trump Administration values farmers and ranchers and wants to support us,” Roberti said. “Now it is up to Congress to do the right thing and pass the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’”

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The California Cattlemen’s Association is a non-profit trade association representing California’s ranchers and beef producers in legislative and regulatory affairs.

Photo credit: The White House