Democratic AGs, governors sue Trump over SNAP benefits as shutdown hits day 28

A coalition of Democratic officials, including 22 attorneys general and three governors, filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to secure food assistance for 42 million Americans during the government shutdown. The USDA announced it could not process November SNAP benefits without congressional approval, despite having a $6 billion reserve fund. Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown indicated that around 900,000 residents in Washington, including 300,000 children, would lose access to essential food benefits starting November 1. The lawsuit argues that the USDA's decision is arbitrary and violates federal administrative law, as it could use available appropriations to fund SNAP. The attorneys general emphasize that the USDA's refusal contradicts its own contingency plan and past practices during government shutdowns.

They seek a federal court order to block the administration's actions and ensure the continuity of SNAP benefits for vulnerable populations. SNAP benefits typically cost the federal government about $9 billion per month, indicating that the contingency fund could cover two-thirds of November's benefits. The case highlights the ongoing conflict over funding during the shutdown and its significant impact on low-income families.