The Majority Report with Sam Seder 3613 - Mamdani 6 Days Out; Suing Trump Over SNAP w/ Zohran Mamdani, Andrea Joy Campbell
Oct 29, 2025
Andrea Joy Campbell, the Attorney General of Massachusetts, sheds light on the multi-state lawsuit aiming to ensure SNAP benefits continue during the government shutdown. She discusses the potential harms to affected communities and the legal basis for their case against the USDA. Meanwhile, Zohran Mamdani shares insights on campaign mobilization efforts in NYC while tackling media criticisms about his progressive policies. The episode highlights urgent legal matters and the power of grassroots activism, underscoring the complexities of political engagement.
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Charity Can't Replace SNAP At Scale
- SNAP provides far more meals than food banks; charity cannot replace government benefits at scale.
- Andrea Joy Campbell emphasizes food banks were not built to replace SNAP's coverage for millions.
Federal SNAP Suspension Is Legally Contested
- The Trump administration has announced suspending SNAP despite existing contingency funds and past precedent of using reserves during shutdowns.
- Massachusetts and 25 other states sued to force USDA to continue SNAP funding citing arbitrary and capricious action under the APA.
SNAP Cuts Trigger Wide Economic Ripples
- Cutting SNAP would ripple through states' economies, harming grocers, schools, and local governments while increasing food bank strain.
- In Massachusetts, over 1 million people depend on SNAP, with nearly 60% children and seniors vulnerable to cuts.