Political commentator Bill Mitchell suggested on Thursday, September 17, 2026, that Americans consider eating veggie burgers as a response to rising ground beef prices. In a post on the social media platform X, Mitchell described the plant-based alternatives as "actually really good" when served with toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, a portobello mushroom, and Swiss cheese.
The suggestion follows reports of increasing beef costs during the administration of President Donald Trump. While the president has proposed importing more beef from foreign countries to address the issue, his supporters have rejected that proposal.
Mitchell’s comments drew attention on social media due to recent political messaging regarding plant-based diets. In various midterm election contests, Republicans have used veganism or meatless diets as a basis for political smears against Democratic candidates.
In Texas, Republican critics labeled Senate candidate James Talarico "Tofu Talarico," despite Talarico not being vegan. President Trump stated that Talarico "eats meat, and he goes outside, and he throws up all over the place." Similarly, in Colorado, Democratic congressional candidate Manny Rutinel has faced criticism and the nickname "Meatless Manny Rutinel" regarding his former status as a vegan.
Mitchell defended his initial post in a follow-up message on Friday, September 18, 2026, stating that "everyone is entitled to their own opinion" but reiterating that he finds well-prepared veggie burgers to be "great."