Massachusetts SNAP Benefits in Limbo as Shutdown Blame game Intensifies
A looming cutoff of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits is sparking a partisan battle in Massachusetts, as the federal government shutdown continues. Both Democrats and Republicans are pointing fingers,with the potential for over 150,000 Bay State residents to see reduced or eliminated food assistance.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has stated that contingency funds are insufficient to cover regular SNAP benefits during the shutdown, attributing the issue to Congressional Democrats’ refusal to pass a ”clean continuing resolution” to maintain funding.
The situation has drawn sharp criticism from House Speaker Mike Johnson, who highlighted comments made by Massachusetts Congresswoman Katherine Clark, the House Minority Whip.Clark acknowledged the suffering families would endure, stating that the shutdown represented “one of the few leverage times we have” for Democrats. Johnson condemned her statement, accusing Democrats of prioritizing political gain over the needs of millions, including those relying on SNAP and other nutrition assistance programs.
Massachusetts senator Ed Markey countered by focusing on a privately funded ballroom expansion project at the White House, contrasting it with the potential for families to struggle with food insecurity. He characterized the situation as a “complete lack of conscience” from Republicans and thier supporters.
Republicans have proposed legislation to fund SNAP payments during the shutdown,but Democrats are seeking negotiations on healthcare issues,specifically enhancements to the Affordable Care Act’s tax credits. The Healey administration has also pointed to the potential impact of the “One Big Lovely Bill Act,” championed by former President Trump, which they claim will further restrict SNAP eligibility and harm over 150,000 Massachusetts residents.
Efforts to pass a GOP-led government funding bill have stalled in the Senate, requiring five additional votes to reach the necessary 60-vote threshold. Currently, Senators John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Angus King (I-Maine) are the only members of the Democratic caucus supporting the bill.
Mike kennealy, a former GOP gubernatorial candidate in massachusetts, has urged the state’s all-democrat congressional delegation to end the “political theater” and reopen the government, emphasizing the harm to children and the disruption of vital infrastructure projects. He labeled Clark’s “leverage” comment as “outrageous and abhorrent.”