New ad campaign targets Midwest lawmakers amid worsening farm crises
Rural Voices USA has launched a six-figure digital and billboard advertising campaign urging Congress to pass year-round E15 legislation. The campaign targets congressional districts in Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Wisconsin, where farmers are facing growing financial pressure.
According to federal forecasts, farm income is expected to decline by $4 billion in 2026. Government payments are projected to make up nearly one third of farm income this year. Surveys show that about half of U.S. farmers believe their operations are worse off than they were a year ago.
Rural Voices USA argues that allowing E15 fuel to be sold year-round would create a steady and sustainable market for corn growers. “Farmers want real, sustainable markets for their crops,” said Chris Gibbs, Board Chairman of Rural Voices USA. “Year-round E15 would help boost the farm economy by increasing corn demand by over 2 billion bushels each year. Every year that Congress drags its feet, it becomes more and more difficult for rural communities to survive.”
The group says nationwide E15 sales could support more than 128,000 new jobs and add $25.8 billion to the U.S. economy. It could also save drivers up to 30 cents per gallon and reduce fuel costs by more than $20 billion overall. Ethanol already replaces about 630 million barrels of imported crude oil each year, helping reduce reliance on foreign energy.
With record corn yields reaching 186.5 bushels per acre in 2025, farmers are seeking stronger domestic demand. The campaign, called “Stop the Stall,” encourages lawmakers to act quickly and provide long-term solutions for rural communities.
Supporters believe passing year-round E15 legislation would strengthen farm income, expand markets, and bring stability to America’s agricultural sector during a challenging economic period.
Photo Credit: stop-the-stall-e15