The Daily The Millions of Poor Americans at the Mercy of the Shutdown
166 snips
Nov 4, 2025 
Tony Romm, a New York Times reporter specializing in economic policy and the Trump administration, sheds light on the ongoing SNAP funding crisis. He explains the implications of the government shutdown on millions reliant on food stamps. The discussion covers urgent topics like the uncertainty of partial payments and legal battles compelling the administration to act. Romm also examines the political motivations behind SNAP cuts and how these decisions impact public trust and food security for vulnerable communities.
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Food Pantry Steps In During Missed Benefits
- A mobile food pantry in Kermit, West Virginia served residents after SNAP payments didn't load on the first of the month.
- People loaded eggs, potatoes and turkey into cars and relied on the pantry as essential short-term relief.
Families Prioritize Children Over Their Own Meals
- Residents described how SNAP shortfalls force them to choose between food and bills or medicine.
- One grandfather said he often skipped meals so his grandson could eat and that food banks kept them alive.
Shutdown Created A SNAP Funding Cliff
- The shutdown exhausted SNAP's regular budget and triggered a funding cliff for 42 million recipients.
- The administration chose limited emergency funds, producing partial payments and unclear timing for relief.