A Pennsylvania Amish farmer had his farm raided by police on Thursday after reportedly violating food regulations, which many are claiming is due to a government agenda of shutting down private farms that go against the grain.
Amos Miller started off as a small farmer but has branched out to several states. Unlike many farmers, Miller’s products are not found in grocery stores. He caters to private clientele who join his club both locally and nationwide.
According to his website, he strives to “raise happy and healthy animals, grow food that is chemical-free, GMO-free, soy-free, antibiotic-free and hormone-free, with traditional, time-honored, but unconventional, sustainable methods.” Miller also states that his farm grows food “according to God’s Law,” which is why he’s believed to be a target.
“They [his customers] don’t trust the large corporations,” Miller told The Lancaster Patriot in 2022. “It’s not sustainable. For some reason, the government keeps endorsing the large corporations, and it can cause big trouble.”
According to Food Safety News, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has been after Miller for years, noting his failure to comply with government food regulations.
In 2016, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported finding listeria in samples of his raw milk, noting it was genetically similar to the samples taken two people who died after consuming raw milk.
Miller’s attorney, Robert Barnes, released a statement calling the raid “lawless,” due to not giving his client prior notice of an inspection, even though Pennsylvania law requires advanced notice.
“Despite the constant harassment, Amos will continue to do all he legally can to provide the food his members deeply need,” he wrote.
The news of Amos’ produce being raided got the attention of many politicians, including former President Donald Trump.
Imagine what law enforcement could accomplish if they went after oh I don’t know, say, members of elite pedophile rings rather than farmers selling to their neighbors???
Can I be the only person sick of this shit? https://t.co/uDLFZlRVWO
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) January 5, 2024
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) also commented on the raid on X, stating that it’s a shame that the government focuses on a transparent farmer than other issues. His post went viral and gained Miller a huge support network.
Looks like Amos Miller’s farm is being raided.
With all of the problems in society today, this is what the government wants to focus on?
A man growing food for informed customers, without participating in the industrial meat/milk complex?
It’s shameful that it’s come to this. https://t.co/pWwjp6cgPh
— Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) January 4, 2024
Massie is an advocate of small farms, which is why he co-wrote the PRIME Act, a bill dedicated to protecting small farms and ranches from government overregulation.