Trump‘s SNAP Threat Backfires as Press Secretary Walks Back Remarks
WASHINGTON – A public threat by former President Trump to halt food stamp (SNAP) payments unless Democrats concede in ongoing budget negotiations was swiftly undermined by his own press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, who affirmed the administration would comply with a court order to continue benefits. The incident, unfolding tuesday, highlights internal tensions and reveals the constraints facing Trump’s team as they navigate legal boundaries while attempting to leverage essential social programs in political bargaining.
Trump, via his Truth Social account, launched a scathing attack on President Biden, falsely alleging widespread SNAP fraud and vowing to suspend payments until Democrats yielded to his demands. This declaration came after a judge ordered the administration to ensure November SNAP benefits were fully funded, as previously scheduled.
Leavitt quickly countered Trump’s statement, clarifying to reporters that the administration would adhere to the court’s directive. Her response, while legally necessary, visibly undercut the former president’s attempt to project strength and dominance.
“They know they cannot be seen as breaking the law to deny food to the hungry,” said David Dayen,executive editor of The American Prospect,in a discussion on The daily blast with Greg Sargent podcast. Dayen argues Trump is currently losing the political battle over the shutdown, citing the former president’s weak standing on economic issues as a key vulnerability.
The incident underscores the delicate position Trump’s team occupies, balancing the need to appease his base with the realities of legal and logistical constraints. The full podcast episode with Dayen is available here and a transcript of the discussion can be found here.
