WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — The Trump Administration plans to release more than $3 billion in aid to U.S. farmers and partially resume U.S. Department of Agriculture operations despite the ongoing federal shutdown.
“Thursday, USDA will resume Farm Service Agency core operations, including critical services for farm loan processing and ARC/PLC payments and programs,” a USDA Spokesperson tells RFD-TV. “President Trump is committed to supporting America’s farmers and ranchers, and this action will release billions in assistance for farmers that Democrats in Congress have held up for over 20 days.”
According to news reports from Reuters and The Wall Street Journal, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that “Thursday, USDA will resume Farm Service Agency core operations, including critical services for farm loan processing, ARC/PLC (commodity) payments, and other programs.”
Reports say the funds will be drawn from the Commodity Credit Corporation, a USDA financing vehicle previously used under the Trump administration to deliver billions in trade-related farmer support. Officials have not yet detailed the breakdown, timing, or eligibility criteria for the aid.
In a statement provided to RFD-TV News on resumed activity at the USDA on Tuesday afternoon, a USDA Spokesperson said:
“President Trump will not let the radical left Democrat shutdown impact critical USDA services while harvest is underway across the country. Thursday, USDA will resume Farm Service Agency core operations, including critical services for farm loan processing and ARC/PLC payments, and programs. President Trump is committed to supporting America’s farmers and ranchers and this action will release billions in assistance for farmers that Democrats in Congress have held up for over 20 days.”
USDA Spokesperson
USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance payments could begin this weekend as producers face tight margins, shifting acreage expectations, cattle herd contraction, and growing pressure for a stronger farm safety net.
February 26, 2026 12:11 PM
·
Delays on year-round E15 keep potential corn demand and fuel savings in limbo.
February 26, 2026 10:53 AM
·
Strong export demand supports barge markets, but weather risks remain.
February 26, 2026 07:00 AM
·
A stalled World Trade Organization appeals body increases long-term trade policy risk for U.S. agriculture.
February 26, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Policy awareness is becoming part of everyday risk management.
February 25, 2026 04:50 PM
·
Three junior heifer exhibitors continue their trek through the Texas Swing at the San Antonio Stock Show, balancing competition, friendship, and life on the road.
February 25, 2026 04:41 PM
·
