A federal judge has mandated the Trump administration to fully finance the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps, condemning the administration for allegedly withholding food aid for political motives. Judge John McConnell, in his ruling on Thursday, emphasized the dire consequences of withholding aid, stating that “16 million children are immediately at risk of going hungry.” SNAP, utilized by approximately 42 million Americans—about one in eight—assists low-income individuals in purchasing groceries. Initially, the administration intended to cease all funding this month due to the ongoing government shutdown, the longest in U.S. history. However, they were later instructed to disburse at least partial payments. Judge McConnell, based in Rhode Island, also rebuked President Donald Trump for suggesting that benefits would only be distributed post-shutdown. He approved a petition from various local governments and non-profit organizations, demanding full food benefits instead of the 65% previously ordered for this month. Appointed by President Barack Obama, Judge McConnell set a deadline for benefit payments by Friday, deeming any further delay “simply unacceptable.” He asserted, “This should never happen in America.” Over 42 million Americans depend on SNAP benefits, yet the program has been in jeopardy during the prolonged shutdown. Although individual states manage the benefits, the program relies on federal funding, which has been suspended since October 1. Last month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), overseeing SNAP, announced it would cease distributing food-assistance funds starting November 1, citing a lack of funds. Half the states and the District of Columbia have sued the administration over the food-aid freeze, arguing their legal obligation to maintain the program. Federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island ruled that the administration must utilize $5.25 billion in emergency funds for at least partial payments. SNAP, costing about $8 billion monthly, enables low-income Americans to purchase groceries through reloadable debit cards. On average, a family of four receives $715 monthly, equating to less than $6 per person daily. Amid funding uncertainties, local governments have directed recipients to charity food pantries, which have initiated emergency drives. Additionally, cost-saving recipes have gained popularity online as Americans seek ways to manage their budgets.