President Donald Trump announced a new $8 billion program to help American farmers cope with high diesel costs during a rally near Wichita, Kansas, on Monday evening.
Speaking to a packed crowd, the president said the Department of Agriculture will launch a Harvest Fuel Relief program to provide support during the current harvest season.
"Tonight I'm also pleased to announce that the Department of Agriculture will be launching a new Harvest Fuel Relief program, providing our farmers with $8 billion in support to offset diesel costs during this harvest season. And Roger Marshall is the leader who fought for that to happen. Roger got it to happen. Good job, Roger," Trump said.
Trump credited Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) for pushing the program through. Marshall is running against Democrat Adam Hamilton in the U.S. Senate race.
Trump Points to Past Farmer Support
The president also reminded the audience of previous financial support for farmers from his administration.
"And when the Republicans win, we will pass even more funding for our farmers. We love our farmers. And remember, I just gave the farmers $12 billion, and in my first term, I gave them $28 billion, if you remember. That came out of the tariff money from China, when China paid it. It was a gift from China," Trump continued.
Diesel Prices Remain Elevated
The current national average price of a gallon of diesel is $6.3151, according to AAA, down slightly from $6.4391 a week earlier. However, those figures are below historical peaks when adjusted for inflation. The July 14, 2008, diesel price of $4.764 a gallon translates to approximately $7.26 in August 2026 dollars.
The announcement underscores the Trump administration's commitment to America's agricultural producers.
"Our farmers aren't just growing crops. They're carrying forward a way of life built on faith, family, hard work, and freedom. That legacy is worth fighting for. Under President Trump, @USDA will ALWAYS have their backs. God bless Kansas and the farmers and ranchers who keep America strong!" the White House said in a statement.
