Judge Praises Trump Over SNAP Funding, Sets Monday Deadline For Payments

A federal judge in Rhode Island lauded President Trump's prompt response to a court order regarding SNAP funding. The order mandated the USDA ensure SNAP benefits reach approximately 42 million Americans facing benefit disruptions due to the government shutdown. Judge McConnell ruled benefits must be distributed by specific deadlines to avoid recipient financial hardship. The judge based his decision on contingency funds and a 1935 Act, emphasizing the need for immediate action. The USDA argued its legal authority and funds were insufficient for full November benefits. Despite the USDA's concerns, contingency funds, estimated at $5.25 billion, were available, but fell short of the estimated needed $8.5 billion. Judge McConnell's order required all available contingency funds be utilized to resolve the food insecurity. Trump expressed his desire to provide funding, seeking legal clarification to comply with the court's direction. The USDA must now submit a compliance plan by Monday, with partial payments as a backup plan. The situation reflects ongoing legal battles and concerns about the government shutdown.