TAHLEQUAH, Okla. (KNWA/KFTA) — The principal chief and deputy chief of the Cherokee Nation have declared a state of emergency due to food insecurity caused by the government shutdown, releasing more than $6.75 million in relief funding.

The state of emergency was announced by Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. and Deputy Chief Bryan Warner on Tuesday.

Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture posted a notice on its website, saying Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits would not go out on Nov. 1, as the shutdown continues, affecting more than 40 million Americans.

"Bottom line, the well has run dry," the USDA notice says. "At this time, there will be no benefits issued November 1. We are approaching an inflection point for Senate Democrats."

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