Legal AF by MeidasTouch Trump Trapped at SCOTUS as Appeal Backfires
Nov 10, 2025
The podcast dives into the intense legal battle over SNAP payments affecting millions of Americans, particularly children. Michael Popok highlights Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's strategic 48-hour stay that complicates the administration's efforts. With state attorneys general seeking to block the clawback of funds, the pressure mounts. The First Circuit's denial of Trump's stay showcases the importance of maintaining SNAP benefits. There's also speculation on how upcoming congressional actions might shift the landscape of this high-stakes litigation.
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Jackson's Tactical 48-Hour Stay
- Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson strategically issued a short 48-hour stay to force Trump into a politically risky path.
- That maneuver ensured partial payments went out and boxed Trump into seeking full Supreme Court relief if he lost on appeal.
McConnell Ordered Full Funding Fast
- Judge McConnell ordered the full $8 billion be paid and identified alternative funds to cover the shortfall.
- The ruling prioritized immediate food access and directed use of Section 32 funds to ensure payments.
Partial Payment Created Legal Trap
- The administration paid $5 billion then sought to block the remaining $3 billion, creating legal and political vulnerability.
- Partial payment undermined their emergency-stay claims and worsened optics when trying to reclaim funds.