By Newsmax Wires | Tuesday, 04 November 2025 11:37 AM EST
President Donald Trump linked the continuation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to the ongoing government shutdown, accusing Democrats of blocking a resolution. “SNAP BENEFITS, which increased by Billions and Billions of Dollars during Crooked Joe Biden’s disastrous term in office … will be given only when the Radical Left Democrats open up government, which they can easily do, and not before!” a post on Truth Social stated.
Independent analyses indicate SNAP spending surged under President Joe Biden, with one study noting a 21% increase in benefits in 2021—the largest rise in decades, as reported by Vox. Republican analysts criticized the expansions for lacking oversight and expanding the program beyond its original purpose of aiding those in genuine need.
The government shutdown has directly threatened SNAP payments, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture announcing no federal food-aid disbursements on November 1 without new funding. Senate Republicans reiterated that reopening the government is the sole path to resuming benefits, per The Guardian.
Critics warn of severe consequences for 42 million Americans reliant on monthly SNAP assistance, arguing the Republican approach prioritizes political posturing over public welfare. Trump’s stance frames the issue as a matter of fairness, asserting that Democrats should restore benefits only after ending the shutdown.
