By FFR News – Updated November 1, 2025
US courts block Trump food aid suspension — In a major legal setback for former President Donald Trump’s administration, two federal judges have ruled that the government cannot suspend the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the ongoing government shutdown. The rulings safeguard food support for more than 42 million Americans, many of whom rely on SNAP to feed their families.
The Trump administration had planned to halt the program starting Saturday, claiming that the shutdown left it without funds. However, both rulings — one from Judge Indira Talwani in Boston and another from Judge John McConnell in Rhode Island — rejected that argument and ordered the government to continue payments using contingency funds.
Judges Rule Against Suspension of SNAP Benefits
Judge Talwani stated that the decision to suspend the program was “unlawful and based on an erroneous interpretation of the law.” She ordered the administration to draw from government contingency funds, which hold at least $5.25 billion, to keep benefits flowing.
Judge McConnell echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the irreparable harm such a suspension would cause to millions of low-income families. “There is no doubt that harm will begin immediately if payments stop,” McConnell said during a virtual hearing.
These rulings mark the first time US courts have intervened to stop a total food aid suspension during a government shutdown.
States and Cities Take Legal Action
The legal battle began when 25 Democrat-led states and the District of Columbia challenged Trump’s move, arguing that halting SNAP was unconstitutional. Several cities, nonprofit groups, and labor organizations joined the lawsuit, accusing the administration of using food aid as political leverage during the budget standoff.
In court filings, the plaintiffs pointed out that the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) had previously said it would use emergency funds to continue SNAP operations. But on October 26, the Trump administration reversed that plan, claiming the “well had run dry.”
The USDA’s message read: “At this time, there will be no benefits issued November 01.” This abrupt shift caused panic among millions of Americans who depend on food aid to survive.
Government Shutdown Deepens
The federal shutdown, now stretching into its 31st day, has crippled multiple services nationwide. Negotiations between Democrats and Republicans remain deadlocked. Democrats are demanding that healthcare protections and essential benefits remain funded, while Republicans insist on passing a continuing resolution before discussing new budget priorities.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins defended the administration’s actions, stating, “By law, contingency funds can only flow when the underlying fund is active.” However, the courts disagreed, reaffirming that the funds are meant “to ensure continuation of program operations when necessary.”
Democrats Applaud the Rulings
Democratic leaders praised the court decisions as a victory for struggling Americans. Senator Amy Klobuchar said, “The administration is choosing not to feed Americans in need, despite knowing it is legally required to do so.”
Advocacy organizations also hailed the outcome, saying it underscores the importance of maintaining social safety nets even amid political gridlock.
What’s Next for SNAP Recipients?
Both judges have given the Trump administration until Monday to provide a detailed plan for resuming SNAP payments. Failure to comply could result in further legal action.
Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations are stepping in to fill temporary gaps. Food banks across the US — including Feeding America and MUST Ministries — report a surge in demand as uncertainty continues.
If the government continues to stall, experts warn that millions could face hunger despite the court rulings.
Broader Implications
This case highlights a growing debate about executive power, federal accountability, and the moral duty of governance. Never before has SNAP been completely suspended during a shutdown, and the courts’ intervention could set a precedent for future administrations.
While Trump officials argue that the ruling hampers their fiscal flexibility, critics say it upholds America’s humanitarian values. The US courts’ block on Trump’s food aid suspension stands as a powerful reminder that political agendas cannot override basic human needs.
For more updates on US politics, visit FFR News Politics Section or learn more about SNAP on the USDA website.
Source: Al Jazeera
