Trump signs executive order mid-rally allowing drivers to use tax-free red-dye diesel to lower fuel costs

President Trump signed an executive order Monday waiving restrictions on the use of tax-exempt red-dye diesel, which he said will ease the pain at the pump for truckers and lower the cost of groceries nationwide. The president described the order — which he inked midway through a raucous midterm election rally in Grand Island, Nebraska — as an “unprecedented step to bring down costs,” and he predicted it would help Republicans in the critical November contests. “For many years, farm vehicles, construction equipment and other off-road vehicles have used what is known as red-dye diesel … which is exactly the same as normal diesel but is sold tax-free for off-road vehicles and big trucks,” Trump explained. “So tonight, I’m going to sign a historic executive order to officially waive the off-road requirement and allow anyone to purchase tax-free, red-dye diesel for any reason,” he announced. White House aide Natalie Harp brought the order up on stage, per Trump’s direction, and the president signed it at the podium. “Pete and Jim, this should absolutely ensure your election, I guarantee you that,” Trump said, addressing Sen.Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and GOP Gov.

Jim Pillen, who are both running for another term in their respective races. The president said the average trucker “will save over $100 every time they fill up,” with the order in place. Additionally, farmers “will also save millions and millions of dollars,” according to the president  “This order will also drive down the cost of all goods, including grocery prices, very substantially,” Trump continued, calling it “an honor” to sign the executive action.The fuel is the same chemically as regular diesel fuel, but is dyed red to distinguish its tax-exempt status. Until now, red-dyed diesel, meant for equipment like tractors, has been banned from use on public roads.Last week, Trump secured the release of up to 100 million barrels of diesel oil from European reser...