President Trump fills a vacancy on the Fed Board and legislators introduce legislation to make it easier for consumers to use E-15 blended fuel.

President Trump continues to levy tariffs on trading partners. Brazil, India and China are the latest to feel pressure from the Oval Office. One country may seek help from the WTO. The U.S. continues to negotiate with Russia to end the 3 year war with Ukraine.

The U.S. trade deficit narrowed in June. Corn based ethanol exports are running 19% ahead of a year ago while biodiesel exports are more than 50% behind last year's pace.  USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden says top ag department officials would stay in Washington, but those who implement programs would likely be in one of five regional USDA hubs.

Commodity groups are encouraged with Luke Lindberg's confirmation as USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agriculture Affairs. Corn prices fall to the lowest mark since the fall of 2020 and the stock market rallies higher.

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins responds to questions regarding the Trump administration's reorganization plan. Rollins says the plan will provide cost savings and better service to customers. Rollins responds to farmer pushback on the MAHA Commission.

Iowa Senator Joni Ernst supports the Trump USDA reorganization plan.  Ernst says many of the provisions are in line with legislation she's already introduced in the Upper Chamber.  The Iowa ag leader also has legislation to limit state attempts to mandate production standards for livestock production.

The Senate Agriculture Committee's hearing on the USDA reorganization plan drew a sharp contrast of opinion today between political leaders and Deputy Secretary Judge Stephen Vaden. The Deputy Secretary said the proposed downsizing was smaller than previous administrations and was based on legislation previously approved by Congress.

Iowa Senator Charles Grassley doesn't agree with the Trump administration's release of plans to reform the USDA, but says the Executive Branch has the authority to make changes to the agency. Grassley doesn't see much chance for a new farm bill this year.

The Trump administration announced a trade deal with the European Union yesterday.  Meanwhile, talks with China continue to hold promise. US corn condition declined and soybeans improved as more of the crop moves deeper into the reproductive phase of growth.

President Trump is pessimistic on a trade deal with Canada but will hold meetings with the EU while in Scotland. The Senate Ag Committee will review the USDA Reorganization plan next week.