Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, November SNAP benefits will not be issued nationwide. This decision, impacting approximately 42 million people, including nearly 170,000 Mainers, stems from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s notification to state agencies. While existing EBT card funds remain available, future benefits are contingent on the shutdown’s resolution or new federal guidance. Maine DHHS is actively monitoring developments and will provide updates as they become available to SNAP recipients.
Read More
Amidst the ongoing government shutdown, roughly 42 million individuals are at risk of losing access to critical food assistance programs in November. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the formal name for food stamps, is projected to run out of funding within two weeks. Without intervention, many vulnerable and hungry families will lose access to this vital support, with states already halting new applications. Although the Trump administration previously diverted funds to maintain other programs, officials have stated there is not enough available to assist the food stamp program, raising concerns about the program’s ability to provide assistance.
Read More
The scoop is out: the Trump administration is warning about dwindling funds for food stamps if the government shutdown continues. It’s a stark message, and it’s sending a shiver down the spines of many, especially those who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. This news isn’t just a headline; it represents a potential crisis, a real-world consequence of political gridlock.
This situation brings up some serious questions about priorities. There’s a definite feeling that something’s off when funds for programs that feed families are in jeopardy, while other areas of spending, like perhaps military budgets or even certain government events, seem to be unaffected.… Continue reading
During a House floor debate, Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) strongly criticized Republican colleagues for their support of President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” particularly highlighting its proposed cuts to SNAP and Medicaid. McGovern emphasized the bill’s tax breaks for specific interests, such as gun silencers, while simultaneously reducing aid for vulnerable families. Democrats, led by McGovern, attempted to amend the bill to protect essential programs, but were blocked by the House Rules Committee Chair, Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.). McGovern also noted the lack of Republican support on the floor for the bill.
Read More
Murkowski votes to advance GOP megabill after early misgivings over Medicaid, SNAP cuts, and it seems, the inevitable disappointment is here. It’s like watching a movie where you already know the ending. Despite expressing initial concerns about the bill, particularly regarding potential cuts to Medicaid and SNAP programs, Senator Murkowski cast her vote to move it forward. The recurring theme here, it seems, is that her “misgivings” often don’t translate into a vote that aligns with those concerns.
The bill itself, as many have noted, carries a significant price tag, potentially adding billions to the national debt. Some suggest this very fact is appealing to Republicans.… Continue reading
Over 95 million Americans are bracing for a brutal cold snap in the coming days, prompting widespread preparations and concerns across a significant portion of the country. The sheer number impacted highlights the scale of this weather event, with forecasts predicting dangerously low temperatures and substantial snowfall in several states.
The potential for more than four inches of snow in parts of Louisiana, southeastern Texas, southern Mississippi, and Alabama is especially concerning, particularly given the potential impact on infrastructure and daily life. Grocery stores are reportedly being emptied as people stock up on essentials, a common response to impending severe weather events.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood