Smithfield CEO Larry Pope testified in front of the Senate Agriculture Committee about a pending deal, which would see Chinese meat producer Shuanghui International purchase the U.S. meat company. Pope attempted to waylay concerns as Senators raised questions about the impact the deal could have on the U.S. economy and food supply chain. During the hearing Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow said,
"In the short-term, I know this deal looks good for our producers... One pork company alone might not be enough to affect our national security, but it's our job to be thinking about the big picture and the long-term for American food security and economic security."