Up First from NPR

Democrats' Shutdown Pressure, SNAP Deadline, Nuclear Testing

130 snips
Oct 31, 2025
Jennifer Ludden, a seasoned NPR reporter, sheds light on the SNAP funding crisis affecting 42 million Americans, exploring state responses and legal challenges. Barbara Sprunt, a congressional correspondent, delves into political pressures faced by Democrats amidst a government shutdown. Jeff Brumfield, an expert in science and security, discusses the implications of the U.S. potentially resuming nuclear weapons testing, warning of an impending arms race and environmental risks. Tune in for a riveting discussion on critical policy and security issues!
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INSIGHT

Democrats Using Shutdown As Leverage

  • Democrats are using the shutdown as leverage to force negotiations on health care subsidies.
  • They believe holding the line pressures Republicans and shifts political blame for shutdown pain.
ANECDOTE

Town Hall Push To Hold The Line

  • At a Maryland town hall, constituents urged Senator Angela Alsobrooks to hold firm for negotiations on health care.
  • Some attendees said backing down would show the party had no backbone and urged holding out as long as possible.
INSIGHT

SNAP Cuts Spark Legal Fight

  • About 42 million people risk losing SNAP benefits as contingency funds run low during the shutdown.
  • Legal fights argue contingency funds were meant for exactly this kind of emergency to prevent widespread harm.
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