What’s Happening with SNAP Under Trump’s Administration?
Food insecurity has been a big issue in the U.S. for years, but it became even more noticeable during the COVID-19 pandemic when many families struggled with job losses and rising grocery prices. Fast forward to 2023, and things haven’t improved much about 1 in 7 households were food insecure, up from 1 in 10 in 2020, according to the USDA.
With grocery prices still climbing, food affordability played a major role in the 2024 election. Donald Trump promised to bring prices down, even making headlines when he covered customers’ grocery bills during a campaign stop in Pennsylvania. But for families relying on government assistance to buy food, there’s concern that Trump’s budget cuts might do more harm than good.
What Is SNAP?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps over 42 million Americans afford groceries. It’s a federal program that gives eligible low-income families a card (kind of like a debit card) to buy food at approved stores. The amount families receive depends on their income and household size.
SNAP covers essential foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, and bread but doesn’t allow purchases of alcohol, tobacco, or hot prepared meals. The program is a lifeline for many families, and experts argue it plays a crucial role in fighting food insecurity. Studies have shown that SNAP reduces the likelihood of food insecurity by about 30% and supports local economies every $1 spent on SNAP reportedly generates $1.54 in GDP growth.
How Is SNAP Changing Under Trump?
Since returning to office, Trump has focused on cutting government spending. His administration recently pushed a budget plan that slashes $230 billion from USDA programs, which includes SNAP. One proposal would shift part of the program’s costs to state governments, which could mean fewer benefits or stricter eligibility rules.
Critics argue that these cuts could impact millions of families, as well as grocery stores and farmers who rely on SNAP purchases. Some experts warn that if these cuts go through, the ripple effects could hurt the broader economy.
What’s Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Doing About It?
As the new Health and Human Services Secretary, RFK Jr. isn’t directly in charge of SNAP, but he’s been vocal about food policies. He wants to limit the types of food SNAP users can buy, starting with banning soft drinks in some states. His argument? Processed foods and sugary drinks contribute to health problems, so taxpayers shouldn’t be funding them.
While some agree with his stance, others argue that restricting choices stigmatizes SNAP recipients and limits their autonomy. Plus, research suggests that most people on SNAP already make nutritious choices when they can.
What’s Next?
Advocacy groups and lawmakers are pushing back against these changes, arguing that cuts to SNAP could lead to more food insecurity and hurt the economy. The debate over food assistance is far from over, and with Trump’s focus on budget cuts, SNAP could see even more changes in the near future.
Food Assistance Under Fire: The Challenges SNAP Faces in the Trump Era
