A federal judge in Washington, D.C., has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s decision to suspend the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), ensuring that millions of low-income Americans will continue receiving food aid for now.
The emergency order was issued late Thursday by U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols after several states and advocacy organizations filed lawsuits arguing that the administration’s move violated federal law. The court found that the suspension appeared to lack both sufficient justification and proper public notice, key procedural requirements under federal administrative law.
The Trump administration had announced the suspension earlier in the day, citing financial strain from the ongoing government shutdown. Officials argued the measure was temporary and necessary to maintain “fiscal responsibility” until Congress approved a funding deal. However, opponents said the abrupt halt to benefits would have immediate and devastating consequences for families already struggling with food insecurity.
“The law requires transparency and reasoned decision-making, not abrupt policy shifts that harm vulnerable communities,” one state attorney general said following the court’s decision.
President Trump responded shortly after the ruling, saying his administration would “restore SNAP funding as soon as the court process allows” and accused Democrats of delaying budget negotiations. He framed the issue as part of a broader political standoff over government spending priorities.
For now, the court’s restraining order means SNAP benefits will continue to flow while the case proceeds. Legal experts expect the dispute could reach higher courts if the administration continues to push for the suspension.
Advocacy groups welcomed the ruling, calling it a “lifeline” for families facing uncertainty during the shutdown. A spokesperson from a nonprofit organization stated that the ruling guarantees millions of Americans won’t be forced to decide between affording their housing and being able to eat.
The outcome of the legal challenge will determine whether the administration can move forward with its proposed funding freeze or be forced to maintain the current level of benefits until Congress resolves the budget impasse.
As the shutdown drags on, the battle over SNAP has become a flashpoint in the broader debate about how to protect essential social programs during fiscal crises – and how far executive power can stretch in times of political deadlock.
