Judge praises Trump, issues deadline for November SNAP benefit payments

A federal judge in Rhode Island acknowledged President Donald Trump’s “quick and definitive response” to a court ruling on Friday over Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit payments, describing the president’s involvement as “greatly appreciated.”

“The Court greatly appreciates the President’s quick and definitive response to this Court’s Order and his desire to provide the necessary SNAP funding,” U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell Jr. wrote in a court order on Saturday.

McConnell ruled that the Department of Agriculture must now ensure that SNAP benefits for November reach recipients in full by the end of Monday, November 3, or that partial payments be issued no later than the end of the day on Wednesday, November 5.

“There is no question that the congressionally approved contingency funds must be used now because of the shutdown,” the judge wrote.

Approximately 42 million Americans, about one in eight, rely on food stamps each month, receiving benefits through electronic cards that can be used to purchase groceries.

More to follow.