The new government’s budget cut plan creates uncertainty among vulnerable families
Last Monday, January 20, Donald Trump officially assumed the presidency of the United States for his second term. With just two days since his inauguration, the economic policies of his administration are already causing concern, especially due to the proposed changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program SNAP, which provides coupons to reduce hunger and improve nutrition for the most vulnerable populations.
During his campaign, Trump made clear his interest in tightening eligibility requirements for SNAP benefits, proposing significant restrictions that could affect millions of families. These measures are part of a budget cut plan led by Republican Representative Jodey Arrington, aimed at funding key initiatives of the new government.
According to a Politico report, the proposal titled «Spending Reform Options» includes adjustments to SNAP and projects savings of $347 billion, of which $22 billion would exclusively correspond to this program. This approach, described as an attempt to «end cradle-to-grave dependency,» is part of a broader cost-cutting strategy designed to achieve $5.7 trillion in federal savings.
However, these cuts come at an alarming time: food insecurity continues to rise in the United States, and the reduction in SNAP benefits could make it even more difficult for many families to maintain a healthy diet. While the House of Representatives may support these measures, they face resistance in the Senate, controlled by Democrats, and even among some sectors of the Republican Party that defend food assistance programs.
In this context, the first weeks of Trump’s second term will be marked by a crucial debate over the future of SNAP, as millions of vulnerable households await clarity amid the possibility of losing a fundamental aid.