GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — U.S. President Donald Trump traveled to Nebraska on Monday as part of a campaign push ahead of the midterm elections, signing an executive order aimed at lifting restrictions on the tax-free use of red-dyed diesel fuel.
Speaking to a crowd in Grand Island, Trump stated that the move would deliver millions of dollars in savings to the agricultural sector while helping lower consumer prices across the country. Addressing local Republican figures—Governor Jim Pillen, who is campaigning for re-election, and Senator Pete Ricketts—Trump underscored the political impact of the decision.
”Pete and Jim, this should absolutely ensure your election, I guarantee you that,” said Trump.
The order comes as surge pricing for diesel, triggered by conflicts involving Iran, continues to weigh on consumers and voters nationwide. Off-road diesel used in farming is typically exempt from federal and state excise taxes and is dyed red for legal identification. The temporary rollback of restrictions is intended to alleviate financial strain on businesses relying heavily on fuel.
”The typical trucker will save more than $100 every time they fill up,” Trump declared as he signed the directive onstage.
Industry analysts, however, expressed skepticism regarding the order’s direct benefit to the agricultural sector. Patrick De Haan, an analyst at fuel-tracking platform GasBuddy, pointed out that farmers already utilize tax-exempt red-dyed fuel, suggesting that the primary issue stems from supply shortages rather than taxation.
”Taxes aren’t the problem, supply is,” De Haan noted in a social media statement.
The Nebraska stop is part of a intensive 32-day tour leading up to the November 3 elections, with recent appearances in conservative strongholds including Oklahoma and Alabama, alongside an upcoming rally scheduled in San Antonio, Texas.
The political effort comes as Ricketts faces a surprisingly competitive battle against independent candidate Dan Osborn for a full six-year Senate term, after originally being appointed to the seat following former Senator Ben Sasse’s resignation in 2023.