Cal Thomas

There are an estimated 42 million people receiving food aid from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. The figure represents 12.3% of the U.S. population, according to the USDA. In the richest nation on Earth that is not something to brag about. It is, or ought to be, a disgrace.

SNAP is a casualty of the government “shutdown,” though two federal judges have ordered the Trump administration to restore funds to the program. On Monday, President Trump said he will use a contingency fund to cover only 50% of SNAP benefits for November, but none after that if the government doesn’t open.

Now would be a good time to ask why so many Americans seek food assistance. A starting point that should get political support (at least from Republ

See Full Page