On Friday, a federal appeals court denied the Trump administration’s bid to block a lower court ruling that mandates full funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) amid an ongoing government shutdown. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 1st Circuit ruled against the administration just as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced its compliance with the district court’s order to fund the program for November.
U.S. District Judge Jack McConnell had previously rejected the administration’s proposal to provide only partial funding for the SNAP program, which serves approximately 42 million low-income Americans. As the shutdown continues, McConnell ruled it necessary for the government to meet its obligations fully and gave officials a strict 24-hour deadline to comply.
In a letter sent to regional directors of SNAP, Patrick Penn, deputy under secretary for USDA’s Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services, stated, “FNS is working towards implementing November 2025 full benefit issuances in compliance with the November 6, 2025, order from the District Court of Rhode Island.” This commitment underlines the urgency of the situation—ensuring that beneficiaries receive the support they rely on during uncertain times.
The administration’s response indicates a high-stakes legal battle. Following the appeals court’s decision, officials filed an emergency appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, seeking intervention by 9:30 p.m. ET on the same day. The request cited “imminent, irreparable harms” due to the need to transfer an estimated $4 billion in benefits by the deadline. According to an administration spokesperson, “Given the imminent, irreparable harms posed by these orders, which require the government to transfer an estimated $4 billion by tonight, the Solicitor General respectfully requests an immediate administrative stay of the orders pending the resolution of this application by no later than 9:30 p.m. this evening.”
This legal clash over SNAP funding reflects the broader tensions within government operations during a shutdown, where essential programs face disruption. SNAP plays a critical role in providing food security for millions, making the outcome of this legal battle significant not only for the Trump administration but also for countless families relying on these benefits across the nation.
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