1. United States
2. Va.
3. Letter

I am deeply concerned about the Agriculture Department's recent decision to withhold contingency funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the ongoing government shutdown. This decision puts at risk the food security of 42 million low-income individuals who rely on SNAP benefits, potentially leaving them without access to essential nutrition as soon as next month. The government shutdown, now in its 24th day, is already causing significant hardship for federal workers and vulnerable citizens alike. The USDA's memo stating it cannot use contingency funds for SNAP and will not reimburse states that cover these expenses is alarming. This decision comes at a particularly critical time when hunger is on the rise and food banks are experiencing increased demand due to the cooling economy. The White House says the president's MAIN PRIORITY is his BALLROOM. SNAP is ending. Subsidies for health care are going to double and in some instances quadruple plan premiums. The government is shut down. The cost of living is through the roof. And his priority is his ballroom. This misalignment of priorities is deeply troubling and demonstrates a lack of concern for struggling Americans. I urge you to take immediate action to ensure SNAP benefits continue uninterrupted. The USDA's claim that contingency funds should be reserved for natural disasters ignores the very real and immediate disaster facing millions of Americans who may go hungry. President Trump has previously moved funds to cover military expenses and the WIC program; surely, feeding our most vulnerable citizens is equally important. The administration's approach to food assistance programs appears cruel and short-sighted. There is a legal obligation to continue funding SNAP, and using it as a bargaining chip in budget negotiations is unacceptable. The needs of 42 million SNAP recipients should not be pitted against other crucial programs like the Affordable Care Act subsidies. I implore you to press for a solution that ensures SNAP benefits are funded immediately. Whether through a targeted appropriation or by compelling the USDA to use existing contingency funds, action must be taken now. The consequences of inaction are dire and will disproportionately affect children, the elderly, and disabled individuals who rely on SNAP for their basic nutritional needs. Please prioritize this issue and work across party lines to protect our most vulnerable citizens from going hungry. The strength of our nation is measured by how we care for those in need, and this is a moment that demands your leadership and compassion.