Taking the Bull By the Horns - and Stonewalling

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"After a case of mad cow disease surfaced in Washington State late last year, federal regulators vowed to move swiftly to adopt rules to reduce the risks of further problems. ... But a few weeks ago, the Food and Drug Administration, after heavy lobbying from the beef and feed industries, took steps to delay - and ... possibly kill" new animal feed regulations. Shortly after the FDA announcement, "the National Cattlemen's Beef Association broke its nonpartisan tradition and endorsed President Bush." Regulatory delays are common before elections, but some say "the tightness in the polls and the strong industry ties to the White House" have worsened the trend this year.