As the U.S. federal government shutdown enters its 34th day, the Trump administration has announced partial funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a critical lifeline for nearly 42 million Americans. The decision follows mounting pressure from federal courts and concerns over food security for low-income households.
President Donald Trump stated on social media that the administration would seek legal pathways to fund SNAP, criticizing congressional Democrats for the ongoing stalemate. The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed $4.65 billion in contingency funds would cover approximately half of November’s SNAP benefits, though uncertainties remain for future months.
Federal judges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts recently challenged the administration’s handling of SNAP funding, with one ruling the withholding of benefits as likely unlawful. Legal battles over emergency funds continue, as the program requires over $8 billion monthly to operate fully.
SNAP, the nation’s largest anti-hunger initiative, primarily supports households at or below the federal poverty line. Analysts warn prolonged disruptions could strain food banks and deepen economic inequalities, with implications for consumer spending trends.
