Trump Hosts Gatsby-Themed Party Amid SNAP Halt Affecting 42 Million

President Donald Trump hosted a lavish Great Gatsby-themed Halloween party at his Mar-a-Lago estate while 42 million Americans faced the suspension of SNAP food assistance due to a government shutdown. The stark contrast between Trump's opulent celebration and the economic hardship endured by millions sparked widespread criticism from public figures including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Senator Chris Murphy, who condemned the event as tone-deaf and emblematic of government cruelty. The shutdown, which began October 1, 2025, has led to stalled paychecks for federal workers and increased food insecurity, with the deadlock rooted in deep political disagreements over healthcare, food subsidies, and federal spending caps. Trump’s party, attended by allies like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and family members, was seen by many as a symbol of detachment from the realities faced by ordinary Americans. Despite the backlash, the White House dismissed the criticism as partisan rhetoric, maintaining Trump’s calls for reopening the government. The event and its timing have intensified debates about leadership, priorities, and empathy amidst ongoing national challenges.