Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania expressed strong disapproval on Saturday regarding the government shutdown, particularly the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits lasting until at least November, labeling it as “wrong.”
In a conversation with Lara Trump on FOX News, Fetterman noted that he wasn’t concerned about who initiated the shutdown. He stated, “It’s always been wrong and we’re here.”
Reflecting on past actions, he mentioned, “I actually took the lead in March and had enough votes to keep the government functioning. I did, despite facing some backlash. I thought, ‘Hey, it’s the right thing to do,’ and I stand by that. Now, back in October, I’m saying the same thing: It’s always wrong.”
Fetterman urged both parties to negotiate an extension of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits that are set to expire at the end of the year, emphasizing that such discussions should only happen while the government remains operational.
He remarked, “They may have lofty goals, but [a government shutdown] is the wrong strategy, and I will never vote for it.”
During the interview, Fetterman reiterated to Lara Trump that he opposes a government shutdown that would exacerbate food insecurity for 42 million Americans across both red and blue counties.
“Republicans and Democrats are hungry and need these [SNAP benefits],” he said. “They deserve this kind of support, and I refuse to engage in bad political theater. It feels like a betrayal of one of our core responsibilities.”
At one point, he referred to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.C., as “an honorable man.”
As the shutdown continues, those depending on SNAP will remain without benefits until government activities resume.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins disclosed that the USDA’s emergency fund is insufficient for current needs and that legal constraints prevent its use for SNAP.
Nonetheless, two federal judges have directed the Trump administration to disburse SNAP benefits. Trump has indicated a commitment to funding SNAP, albeit with delays until November.
In his remarks, Trump stated, “Government lawyers don’t believe we have the legal authority to pay the specific funds available to SNAP, and now two courts have issued conflicting opinions on what we can and cannot do.” He added that he has instructed attorneys to seek clarification from the courts regarding the legal funding of SNAP so that Americans won’t face hunger due to the government’s inaction.
