Federal Judge to Decide SNAP Benefits Amid Government Shutdown, Trump Plans Nuclear Testing Resumption

The ongoing federal government shutdown threatens to halt SNAP food benefits for approximately 42 million Americans starting November 1, raising significant concerns about food insecurity. A federal judge is expected to decide whether the Trump administration must find ways to continue providing these benefits despite the shutdown, as the Agriculture Department states it lacks funds and legal authority to use contingency funds. Democratic governors and attorneys general have sued, arguing that SNAP is an entitlement that cannot be cut off, while state officials and community resources prepare to support affected families. The shutdown also impacts other sectors, such as air traffic control, with airlines urging Congress to pass funding bills. Meanwhile, political debates continue over how to address these issues, with Democrats pushing to reopen the government if health care subsidies are extended to manage rising insurance premiums. Local voices, including candidates for governor, emphasize the critical nature of SNAP benefits and the harsh choices facing recipients due to the impasse.