Story perspectives

Democratic States Sue Trump to Preserve SNAP Benefits

10/29/2025

Summary

States Challenge SNAP Suspension

Coalition of 25 Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit against U.S. President Donald Trump and the Department of Agriculture to block the November 1 SNAP suspension.
The suit argues USDA has $6 billion in contingency funds to maintain SNAP, serving over 42 million low-income Americans.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell criticized the administration for causing fear and harm.
The USDA contends it cannot use these funds during the shutdown.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1964 as part of President Johnson's "War on Poverty," the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) aimed to alleviate hunger among low-income Americans, initially serving 15 million people. Today, it supports over 42 million individuals, highlighting its critical role in the U.S. social safety net amid ongoing legal challenges regarding federal funding and support for vulnerable populations.

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States Challenge SNAP Suspension

Coalition of 25 Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit against U.S. President Donald Trump and the Department of Agriculture to block the November 1 SNAP suspension.
The suit argues USDA has $6 billion in contingency funds to maintain SNAP, serving over 42 million low-income Americans.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell criticized the administration for causing fear and harm.
The USDA contends it cannot use these funds during the shutdown.

1 / 2