White House to Announce $12 Billion Farmer Aid Package
Will assist U.S. agricultural producers hard hit by trade tensions with China and rising production costs
President Trump is expected to announce a new $12 billion federal farm aid package to help U.S. agricultural producers hard hit by trade tensions with China and rising production costs. The plan is expected to have significant effects in Alabama and across the Southeast, where row crop and specialty crop farms are vital to local economies.
The proposal will be unveiled at a White House roundtable with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and lawmakers Monday afternoon, according to reports from the Associated Press and Politico. The aid comes as many farmers face reduced export demand and higher costs for seed, fertilizer and equipment tied to tariff policies implemented over the past three years.
The centerpiece of the initiative is the USDA’s Farmer Bridge Assistance program, which is being funded with more than $11 billion to provide one-time payments to farmers of key row crops such as soybeans, corn, cotton and wheat. These crops form a major part of agricultural output in Alabama and the wider Southeast, where producers have also been navigating volatile markets and input price inflation.
The remaining $1 billion is reserved for specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables and other commodities not covered under the bridge assistance program. This reflects growing attention to the diversity of farms across the South, where producers of sweet potatoes, peanuts and orchard crops also contribute to regional food supply and jobs.
Secretary Rollins is expected to discuss the immediate need for stability ahead of the next planting season. While not quoted directly in available coverage, USDA leaders have emphasized that the goal is to help farmers “plan for next year’s harvest” and cope with market disruptions.
Alabama farmers, already balancing tight margins, stand to benefit from payments under the new plan. Soybeans and cotton, two of the State’s top row crops, have experienced price swings and export challenges as China slowed purchases under prior trade commitments. The Southeast’s proximity to export gateways, including the Port of Mobile, has increased its exposure to global market shifts.
Local farm groups have said consistent export markets are critical for Southern agriculture. Even before this announcement, many producers in the region reported lower demand for commodities that used to ship regularly overseas. Disruptions in trade have compounded pressures from rising fertilizer and fuel costs, affecting bottom lines for both small family farms and larger operations.
The administration’s package follows earlier relief efforts, bringing total federal support for struggling farmers this year near record levels. Alabama producers and agricultural leaders will be watching closely as details emerge on eligibility, payment timing and distribution.
The $12 billion plan is scheduled to begin distribution in early 2026, with the most substantial payments expected to roll out in February, according to multiple reports. Officials said the aid will draw from the USDA’s emergency funds and may be followed by additional measures next year.
