1. United States
2. W.V.
3. Letter

The SNAP reserve fund — about $6 billion — exists to prevent hunger during funding gaps. It’s an emergency cushion Congress created so families wouldn’t go hungry if a shutdown happened. Right now, the GOP-led House and Senate Republicans are choosing not to authorize USDA to use that fund beyond a short window, even though it could easily keep families fed throughout the shutdown. This isn’t a money problem — it’s a cruelty problem. You are playing political chicken with people’s food to gain leverage for spending cuts and harsher work requirements, while pretending it’s about “fiscal discipline.” SNAP is one of the most efficient programs in the country — roughly $8 billion a month to feed more than 40 million Americans, including children, veterans, seniors, and working families. The shutdown doesn’t “run out” SNAP funds; you are withholding permission to spend money that already exists. That is deliberate harm, not fiscal responsibility. West Virginians deserve leaders who prevent hunger, not cause it. Do your job. Let USDA release the funds and feed the people you claim to represent.