Meet the Press Meet the Press NOW — October 27
Oct 27, 2025
Rep. Don Davis, a North Carolina congressman and member of the House Agriculture Committee, discusses the dire implications of the government shutdown on SNAP benefits for his constituents. Ontario Premier Doug Ford responds to U.S.-Canada trade tensions, defending a controversial ad that aims to ignite debate on tariffs. Meanwhile, NBC News senior business correspondent Christine Romans analyzes the economic ramifications of these trade policies, emphasizing their potential impact on U.S. prices and supply chains.
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Shutdown Threatens Massive Food Aid
- The shutdown risks cutting SNAP for 42 million people and disrupting WIC and Head Start starting November 1st.
- Senate dynamics and refusal to use contingency funds make this a political pressure point with real hunger consequences.
Consider Targeted Funding Votes
- Republicans and the White House are resisting piecemeal SNAP fixes, urging Democrats to reopen the government instead.
- Lawmakers should consider targeted funding votes to avoid immediate denial of benefits before November 1st.
USDA Won't Use Contingency For SNAP
- USDA refuses to tap a $5 billion contingency fund because it's reserved for disasters, not shutdowns, signaling deliberate limits on administrative fixes.
- That choice frames the funding lapse as a political lever to force congressional negotiation.
