On Point | Podcast Looming cuts to food assistance in Trump's budget bill
Jun 18, 2025
Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America and veteran USDA official, joins Kevin Korins, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. They discuss looming budget cuts to food assistance programs like SNAP, which could drastically affect low-income families and seniors relying on these vital supports. The conversation explores the moral implications of these cuts, personal stories of dependency on assistance, and the potential impacts on public health and agriculture. They stress the urgent need for awareness and action to address rising food insecurity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Personal SNAP Assistance Experience
- David Horst applied for SNAP when his income fell below eligibility due to life changes.
- SNAP benefits stabilized his family, easing financial pressure during tough times.
Why SNAP Caseloads Grow
- SNAP serves more people because economic issues keep incomes too low and expenses too high.
- Food insecurity affects 1 in 10 employed Americans despite work efforts.
Expanded SNAP Work Requirements
- Work requirements for SNAP recipients would increase, extending mandatory work up to age 64.
- This policy aims to promote employment but raises concerns about vulnerability of older adults.
