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Trump Uses Tariff Funds to Support WIC Amid Shutdown

10/8/2025

35 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Trump administration plans to use tariff funds to support WIC during the shutdown.
This affects nearly 7 million low-income mothers and children.
WIC funding is at risk as Congress has not approved federal fiscal year 2026 (FY2026) funding; critics question the legality of tariff revenue.
The Supreme Court will hear a case on the legality of Trump's tariffs next month.

History

Historical Context

In 2018, the Trump administration imposed tariffs of 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum, aiming to bolster domestic production. This move generated significant revenue but also raised concerns about its impact on social welfare programs like WIC, which supports nearly 7 million low-income mothers and children. The ongoing funding crisis for WIC highlights the complex relationship between trade policy and social support systems.

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Story summary

The Trump administration plans to use tariff funds to support WIC during the shutdown.
This affects nearly 7 million low-income mothers and children.
WIC funding is at risk as Congress has not approved federal fiscal year 2026 (FY2026) funding; critics question the legality of tariff revenue.
The Supreme Court will hear a case on the legality of Trump's tariffs next month.

1 / 2