PETA 'Pigs' Hit GOP Primary With 'Tax Meat' Message to End Meat Subsidies

Thrifty Move Would Cut Government Spending and Health-Care Costs

For Immediate Release:
January 18, 2012

Contact:
Shakira Croce  202-483-7382

Charleston, N.C.  -- Decked out in pig costumes and driving a convertible, two PETA members will make a splash at the Republican debate and attendant campaign events throughout the state with a proposal to cut government spending by calling for an end to the huge subsidies for corn and soybeans fed to livestock. Waving signs that read, "Cut the Pork: End Meat Subsidies!" and showering the crowds with campaign buttons, the PETA porkers will point out that meat consumption wreaks havoc on the environment and has been linked to some of America's top killers, such as heart disease and cancer, driving health-care costs through the roof. PETA is also calling for meat to be taxed at 10 cents per pound to offset its staggering costs, just as alcohol, tobacco, gasoline, and other items are subject to a "sin" tax.

When:   Thursday, January 19, 5 p.m.

Where:  Outside the debate, North Charleston Coliseum, Charleston

"Today's factory farms aren't just a nightmare for animals—they're also damaging to our health and the environment," says PETA Senior Vice President Dan Mathews. "Ending meat subsidies would save taxpayers money and save countless lives, both human and nonhuman."

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Please note that PETA is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to stopping animal abuse. We take no position in support of or opposition to any political party or candidate for public office.