Government Shutdown Looms as SNAP Funding Faces Imminent Lapse, Trump Demands Filibuster Reform
WASHINGTON – As the U.S. government entered its 30th day of a partial shutdown on October 30, 2025, concerns mounted over the impending expiration of funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), possibly impacting food assistance for millions of Americans. Simultaneously, former president Donald Trump escalated his demands for an end to the stalemate, calling for the immediate elimination of the Senate filibuster.
The ongoing shutdown, triggered by congressional disagreements over federal spending, is already disrupting numerous government services.The potential lapse in SNAP funding adds a critical new dimension to the crisis, threatening access to food for low-income individuals and families.The Senate filibuster, a procedural rule requiring 60 votes to end debate on most legislation, has been a key obstacle to resolving the budget impasse, with Republicans and Democrats locked in a struggle over spending priorities.Trump’s insistence on its abolition reflects a growing frustration with the legislative process and a desire for a swift resolution.
“I can put money in a savings account and use that if I absolutely have to, but otherwise there’s no more routine care for me,” shared one American affected by the shutdown, expressing concern over the suspension of preventative healthcare. “There’s no mammography, there’s no annual visits, and I no that there are a lot of things that run in my family that you know could get me right about this age, all the women in my family have had breast cancer, so I know that’s on the table for me, but I feel pretty helpless at this moment.”
The shutdown began after Congress failed to pass appropriations bills to fund the government before the start of the fiscal year on October 1, 2025. Several federal agencies have been forced to suspend non-essential operations, furloughing employees and curtailing services. Negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders have so far failed to yield a breakthrough.
Trump, speaking publicly, argued that eliminating the filibuster “NOW” would allow the Republican-controlled House of Representatives to quickly pass legislation reflecting its priorities and end the shutdown. Democrats have resisted this call, arguing that the filibuster is a vital tool for protecting minority rights and ensuring bipartisan compromise.
The lapse in SNAP funding, if it occurs, would leave millions vulnerable to food insecurity. The program provides food assistance to over 40 million Americans, with benefits averaging around $281 per month per household. The timing of the potential cut comes as many families are already struggling with rising food prices and economic uncertainty.
Reporting by ABC News’ Justin Gomez.
