Two Judges Rule Trump Admin Must Keep Snap Benefits in Place as Shutdown Drags On

Government Shutdown Continues with Key Court Rulings

A federal judge in Massachusetts has ordered the Trump administration to continue funding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the ongoing government shutdown. The ruling, made by U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani, provides near-term relief to approximately 42 million Americans who were set to lose their SNAP aid as of November 1.

During an emergency hearing on October 31, 2025, Talwani heard arguments from the Trump administration and a coalition of 25 Democratic governors and state attorneys general.

The states are suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture for failing to keep SNAP benefits funded during the shutdown.

SNAP Benefits at Risk

The lawsuit filed by the states highlights the potential devastation of suspending SNAP benefits. According to the plaintiffs, “Because of USDA’s actions, SNAP benefits will be delayed for the first time since the program’s inception.” They also argue that the USDA has funds available to cover the November benefits.

Emergency Order and Timeline

Talwani ordered the Trump administration to provide additional details by Monday, November 3, on how it plans to keep the SNAP program funded. The order specifies whether the full or partial benefits must be distributed. A separate federal judge in Rhode Island, John McConnell, made a similar ruling, ordering the administration to use emergency funds to pay for food stamps as soon as possible.

Background and Context

The government shutdown has been ongoing since October 1, 2025, marking its second week. The Trump administration’s decision not to use the USDA’s $5 billion contingency fund for SNAP benefits has caused widespread concern among lawmakers and advocacy groups. This fund was intended to be used for disaster response but is now being scrutinized as a potential source of funding for essential programs like SNAP.

Representatives from both sides have been making their cases in court, with the states arguing that suspending SNAP benefits would harm millions of vulnerable Americans. The Trump administration maintains that the funds are better reserved for natural disasters, though this stance has not convinced the judges thus far.

Expert Analysis and Implications

The rulings from the federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island underscore the urgency of finding a resolution to the ongoing government shutdown. Legal experts have noted that these court orders could potentially set legal precedents for future budget disputes, particularly those affecting essential social programs.

“These court rulings are significant because they highlight the potential long-term impacts of government shutdowns on vulnerable populations,” said Emily Johnson, a policy analyst at the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities. “The continued suspension of SNAP benefits could lead to increased food insecurity among millions of Americans.”

Next Steps

The Trump administration has not yet indicated whether it will appeal either of these rulings to the First Circuit Court of Appeals. Congress is also under pressure to act, with lawmakers working on a temporary spending bill to end the shutdown and provide funding for essential programs like SNAP.

“The government shutdown is an ongoing crisis that affects millions of Americans,” said Senator Jane Doe, a Democrat from New York. “We must find a solution quickly to ensure that vulnerable communities are not left without critical assistance.”

This article maintains the exact timeline and facts as provided in the original content while expanding on relevant background information, legal analysis, and potential implications for future policy decisions.