UPDATE: President Donald Trump has announced he will withhold Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits until the ongoing government shutdown ends, impacting over 42 million Americans who rely on food stamps. This urgent decision comes as federal judges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts have ordered the administration to fund SNAP during the shutdown, which began on October 1.
In a post on Truth Social early Tuesday, Trump stated, “SNAP benefits will be given only when the Radical Left Democrats open up government.” He accused the Biden administration of mismanaging the program, which saw significant increases in funding during Biden’s presidency.
The administration previously indicated that it would pay partial food stamp benefits for November, but now this plan is in jeopardy. In a court filing on November 3, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) stated it is complying with court orders and intends to use contingency funds to fulfill SNAP obligations. However, those funds are limited, covering only 50% of eligible households’ current allotments.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins emphasized that if the government reopens, families would receive their full benefits much faster. However, she did not confirm whether funds would be withheld during the shutdown.
Legal advocacy group Democracy Forward, involved in the Rhode Island case, filed a motion on Tuesday demanding that the Trump administration expedite benefit distribution. President and CEO Skye Perryman criticized the administration’s stance, calling it “immoral and unlawful,” urging immediate action to ensure families can access food.
The SNAP funding crisis aligns with the impending expiration of benefits, initially set to run out on November 1. Patrick A. Penn, deputy undersecretary for U.S. Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services, indicated in an October 24 letter that no November benefits would be allocated until federal funding is ensured.
The Trump administration’s current position on SNAP funding diverges from prior commitments. Following the court rulings, Trump expressed intentions to seek clarification on legally funding SNAP. However, it remains uncertain whether he can utilize executive power to halt SNAP during the ongoing shutdown, particularly with two federal court cases pending.
This developing story raises critical concerns for millions who depend on these benefits for their basic nutritional needs. As the situation unfolds, the USDA and White House have not yet responded to requests for comments.
Stay tuned for updates as this situation continues to evolve, and millions await clarity on their food assistance.
