The Brian Lehrer Show Friday Morning Politics: The Continuing Government Shutdown
Nov 7, 2025
Tolu Olorunnipa, a staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in national politics, dives into the ongoing government shutdown and its dire effects on SNAP benefits. He highlights how 42 million Americans are impacted, with overwhelmed food banks struggling to meet rising demands. Olorunnipa discusses the political implications of the shutdown, from lawmakers' responses to changing voter sentiments. He also emphasizes the necessity for diverse aid beyond food, addressing the urgent needs of various communities during this crisis.
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Small Town Food Bank Runs Dry
- A food bank in Hohenwald, Tennessee, canceled a distribution because supplies ran out.
- Local food banks report being overwhelmed and unable to meet surging demand after SNAP paused.
Charities Were Already Stretched
- Food banks were already stretched from post-pandemic demand and rising costs.
- SNAP interruptions magnify that strain and risk breaking local emergency systems.
Shutdown Is About Appropriations, Not Taxes
- Taxes still flow into the treasury during a shutdown but appropriations are required to spend them.
- The administration refused to tap the usual SNAP contingency fund, triggering litigation and delayed payments.