Trump announces $8 billion agricultural aid
The gist
President Donald Trump announced an $8 billion USDA program to offset farmers' diesel costs this harvest season.
The aid lands 15 days before midterms, with diesel about 75% costlier.
How it unfolded
- Sep 22, 2026Diesel reached a record $6.53 a gallon, easing slightly since.
- Oct 5, 2026Trump signed an executive order to defer collection of the excise tax on red-dyed diesel through the end of the year.
- Oct 6, 2026Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a similar proclamation temporarily suspending penalties for on-road use of red-dyed diesel to move grain, fertilizer and other ag-related products.