WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has asked Congress to approve more than $11 billion in additional funding to help U.S. farmers cope with rising fuel and fertilizer costs linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
The request would add to the $12 billion in farm assistance the Trump administration has already distributed in 2026.
According to Reuters, farm and industry groups said the proposed funding would help producers prepare for spring planting but would not fully offset their increased operating costs.
Fuel and fertilizer prices have risen this year because of shipping disruptions in the Middle East related to the conflict with Iran.
White House Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought signed the funding request, which allocates $10 billion for specialty crop growers with crops planted this year.
The remaining $1.1 billion would provide assistance to Florida farmers affected by winter storms in 2025 and early 2026, according to the request cited by Reuters.
Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture show that, if Congress approves the proposal, the Trump administration would distribute an estimated $55.4 billion in direct payments to farmers in 2026, accounting for about 33% of total U.S. farm income this year.