Cal Thomas: The hunger games
In the United States, an alarming 42 million individuals currently rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, which accounts for approximately 12.3 percent of the population. This statistic raises significant concerns, especially in a nation with vast resources. The current situation is exacerbated by the ongoing government shutdown, which has led to a critical funding crisis for SNAP. Recently, President Trump announced that only 50 percent of SNAP benefits would be covered for November, leaving the future of the program uncertain if the government remains closed. This predicament has prompted federal judges to intervene, ordering the administration to restore funds, highlighting the precarious balance between political maneuvering and the welfare of millions of Americans.
The necessity for food assistance, particularly in a wealthy country, prompts a deeper examination of the root causes behind such reliance on government aid. A significant factor contributing to this dependency is the prevalence of improper payments within the SNAP program. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) estimates that around 11.7 percent of SNAP benefits, equating to approximately $10.5 billion, were classified as improper payments in fiscal year 2023 due to fraud, errors, and overpayments. Notably, there has been a staggering 55 percent increase in fraudulent transactions recently, underscoring the need for reform. Advocates suggest that addressing these issues could not only enhance the program’s efficiency but also shift the focus towards encouraging self-sufficiency among able-bodied recipients. This includes reinforcing work and job training requirements for those without dependents, with the ultimate aim of reducing reliance on government assistance.
Moreover, the current political landscape complicates the discussion surrounding SNAP and food assistance. Senate Democrats have faced criticism for leveraging the program as a bargaining chip in the ongoing government shutdown, which has contributed to a perception that both parties are more invested in political posturing than in resolving the underlying issues. A recent poll indicates that voters are increasingly blaming Republicans for the shutdown, which could have lasting implications for future legislative negotiations. As the debate continues, it becomes clear that while the need for government assistance remains, the solutions to these systemic problems may be hindered by political agendas. Ultimately, fostering a culture of self-reliance and accountability could help alleviate the burden on SNAP and create a more sustainable framework for those in need.
There are an estimatedÂ
42 million
 people receiving food aid from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (
SNAP
), formerly known as food stamps. The figure representsÂ
12.3 percent
 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 haveÂ
ordered
 the Trump administration to restore funds to the program. On Monday, President Trump said he will use a contingency fund to cover onlyÂ
50 percent
 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 Republicans) would be the elimination of mistakes, waste and fraud in the SNAP program.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which administers SNAP for the states,Â
estimates
 that in fiscal year 2023 approximately 11.7 percent of SNAP benefits, or about $10.5 billion, were “improper payments,” including fraud and other errors. While overpayments from household errors and administrative mistakes make up the largest portion of these improper payments, the USDA and other experts also report significant issues with benefit trafficking and recent surges in theft. For example, a 55 percent increase in fraudulent transactions occurred between the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 and the first quarter of 2025.
The first food assistance programs wereÂ
established in 1939
 during the administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Like so many other government programs, when the Depression ended and the need for food assistance subsided, the programs continued and new people were added, even during periods of prosperity.
Following the elimination of improper payments, there should be a focus on the able-bodied who are not working. There is a work and job training requirement for people receiving SNAP benefits. Whether those without children are meeting that requirement should be investigated. The goal should be to wean people off government assistance and toward financial independence. The elderly and those with physical or mental disabilities who qualify, should continue receiving food assistance.
Whatever happened to children caring for their parents who are in need? Adult children with resources should be required to help their parents before turning to the government.
Senate Democrats, most of whom have refused to vote to open the government, continue to use SNAP – as well as air traffic controllers and other vital services – to extort political capital from Republicans. So far it appears to be working. A recentÂ
Quinnipiac
 poll found that voters blame Republicans slightly more than Democrats for the shutdown.
Too many Americans believe they are entitled to other people’s money and that it is government’s responsibility to take care of every citizen (and some non-citizens) from cradle to grave. Maybe Congress should be listed among those who are “non-essential” and have their pay suspended. Watch how quickly the government would open again should that occur.
Nearly every problem has a solution. The problem for politicians is that if they solve a problem, they no longer have an issue with which to bash the other party. As long as holding on to political office remains their top priority, nothing will change. More people will come to rely on government, which will help the Democrats, but it will be bad for the country and the people who have become addicted to government.
Readers may email Cal Thomas atÂ
tcaeditors@tribpub.com
. Look for Cal Thomas’ latest book “A Watchman in the Night: What I’ve Seen Over 50 Years Reporting on America” (HumanixBooks).
