Millions of Americans relying on SNAP benefits face the potential loss of their food assistance due to the government shutdown, which is being caused by the Trump administration refusing to release legally appropriated funds. Despite the existence of a contingency fund specifically designed for such emergencies, the administration claims it is unable to use it, contradicting legal mandates. Experts argue this refusal is a clear violation of the law, which requires benefits to be furnished to all eligible households, and further assert that the administration has the authority to transfer funds from other nutrition programs to ensure benefits are paid. Attorneys general in numerous states are suing the administration over the issue, highlighting the unlawful and immoral nature of the situation.
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Speaker Mike Johnson stated that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) contingency funds are not legally available to cover benefits during the government shutdown, citing a legal analysis from the Trump administration. The USDA, holding over $5 billion in the fund, also claims it will not use these funds if the shutdown extends beyond October 31, arguing that the funds are intended for unforeseen events, not politically motivated ones. Johnson places blame on Democrats, asserting that SNAP could be funded if they support the GOP proposal to reopen the government. This stance contradicts a previous USDA plan that indicated the department was legally obligated to pay SNAP benefits during a shutdown.
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The government shutdown has placed SNAP benefits for millions of Americans in jeopardy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture claims it cannot pay November’s benefits without congressional action. Democrats and anti-hunger groups, however, contend that the USDA has both the funding and authority to provide the benefits, accusing the administration of choosing to withhold aid. House Republicans place blame on Democrats for blocking funding. This dispute could have severe consequences for over 22 million households and become a major point of contention in the ongoing funding stalemate.
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During a recent Asia tour, former President Donald Trump was criticized for dancing in Malaysia while millions of Americans face potential food assistance cuts. Critics like MeidasTouch podcaster Ben Meiselas and California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the perceived insensitivity, highlighting the contrast between Trump’s celebratory actions and the domestic struggles of many Americans. This focus on foreign affairs has drawn criticism from within his own party, with some expressing concerns that it overshadows pressing economic issues and the “America First” agenda. This has been noted by some of his closest advisors.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that SNAP benefits would not be issued on November 1st due to the ongoing government shutdown. This shutdown, now the second-longest on record, has left approximately 42 million low-income Americans at risk of losing access to food assistance. The USDA’s website placed blame on Democrats by criticizing their healthcare policies, leading some Democrats to accuse the Trump administration of violating the Hatch Act. Despite calls from Democratic lawmakers, the Trump administration has rejected using contingency funds to cover the benefits.
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Democrats and other critics have condemned the Trump administration for its refusal to use contingency funds to provide food aid through SNAP during the government shutdown, threatening benefits for approximately 42 million low-income individuals. Despite the availability of emergency funds specifically allocated for such situations, the administration has insisted that these funds are not legally accessible for regular benefits. Experts and former officials, however, argue that the USDA is legally obligated to utilize these reserves to ensure November benefits are issued. While the administration has stated that everyone will be “in good shape,” the lack of concrete action and contradictory memos from the USDA have heightened concerns about the potential for widespread hunger among vulnerable populations.
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) faces a potential funding crisis, threatening benefits for nearly 42 million Americans. If the federal government shutdown continues, funding for SNAP could be cut off by November 1st, potentially leading to a widespread hunger crisis. Despite Republican efforts to blame Democrats, the situation is complicated by the elimination of significant SNAP funding through 2024. SNAP benefits are crucial for many low-income families, including working parents and seniors, providing vital food assistance that allows them to make ends meet.
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Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks has introduced the “Keep SNAP Funded Act of 2025” to ensure SNAP benefits continue during a government shutdown, aiming to protect the program serving millions. The bill mirrors a Senate companion led by Sen. Josh Hawley, addressing concerns that November SNAP payments may be at risk. With the Department of Agriculture warning of insufficient funds, the legislation seeks to fund SNAP until regular appropriations are in place. The bill faces an uncertain path in the House as Speaker Johnson focuses on pressuring the Senate for a funding stopgap, but has hinted that the House will address the bill if the Senate passes it.
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Texas officials announced that SNAP benefits for the state’s most vulnerable residents are at risk due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. If the shutdown continues past October 27th, more than $614 million in food assistance will be halted, impacting approximately 3.5 million Texans, including 1.7 million children. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has warned that November SNAP payments may cease. The Texas Health and Human Services is directing Lone Star Card users to their website for more information, while other assistance programs remain unaffected.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture has declared that SNAP benefits will not be distributed next month due to the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 21st day. This decision impacts 42 million Americans, including nearly 170,000 in Maine, who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for food assistance. While November benefits are paused, previously issued benefits remain usable, and applications for SNAP are still being accepted. For further assistance, individuals are encouraged to contact 211.
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John Q. Hosedrinker