Story perspectives

Trump Administration Cuts SNAP, Threatening Millions with Hunger

10/31/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration announced SNAP cuts totaling nearly $187 billion, affecting 42 million Americans.
The new rules require families to prove work hours, risking a monthly 2.4 million loss in participation.
Amid a government shutdown, the USDA is accused of illegally withholding funds, threatening November hunger.
Food banks brace for higher demand due to shortages and funding cuts nationwide.

History

Historical Context

In 2018, the Trump administration proposed significant cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), aiming to enforce stricter work requirements and potentially reducing participation by 2.4 million individuals. This proposal echoed the 1996 welfare reforms under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act, which similarly sought to limit assistance, raising concerns about increased food insecurity for millions of Americans.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration announced SNAP cuts totaling nearly $187 billion, affecting 42 million Americans.
The new rules require families to prove work hours, risking a monthly 2.4 million loss in participation.
Amid a government shutdown, the USDA is accused of illegally withholding funds, threatening November hunger.
Food banks brace for higher demand due to shortages and funding cuts nationwide.

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