Trump Urges GOP to Eliminate Filibuster as Shutdown Intensifies Food Security Crisis
Updated 47 minutes ago — As the government shutdown enters its second month,a dual crisis is unfolding in Washington: former President Trump is calling on Republicans to dismantle the Senate filibuster,while food banks nationwide brace for a surge in demand following the impending cutoff of SNAP benefits.
The escalating situation highlights the deepening political and economic consequences of the ongoing impasse. On Thursday,Mr. Trump took to his truth Social platform, urging Republican lawmakers to invoke the “Nuclear Option†and eliminate the filibuster. “It is now time for the Republicans to play their ‘TRUMP CARD,’ and go for what is called the Nuclear Option — Get rid of the Filibuster, and get rid of it, NOW!†he wrote. He argued that Democrats previously attempted to alter the filibuster rule, but were thwarted by senators Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, who have as left the Senate and registered as independents.
The filibuster, a Senate rule requiring 60 votes to end debate on a bill, currently obstructs the passage of legislation, including a short-term government funding bill that could end the shutdown. While a simple majority of 51 votes is needed for passage, the 60-vote threshold presents a meaningful hurdle. Mr. Trump warned that if Democrats regain power, thay would eliminate the filibuster “in the first day they take office.â€
Did you know?– The filibuster wasn’t always a requirement for ending debate in the Senate. It evolved over time, becoming a more prominent obstacle to legislation in the 20th century. Its use has fluctuated depending on the political climate.
Concurrently, the shutdown is exacerbating food insecurity across the country. Food banks, already strained by increased demand from furloughed federal workers, are preparing for a dramatic influx of individuals who will lose access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program (SNAP) on Saturday. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture,payments for SNAP will cease due to the shutdown.
“Nonprofits can’t possibly meet the tremendous new need that’ll be created when 42 million people lose access to basic food security,†stated Diane Yentel, CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits, on CBS News’ “The Daily Report.†Her institution, along with several others, has filed a lawsuit against the federal government, arguing that the management lacks the legal authority to suspend SNAP benefits and must utilize a $5 billion USDA contingency fund. The USDA maintains it does not have the authority to access that fund.
The impact is already being felt by families across the nation. Carlos Gomez, a federal employee in San Antonio, Texas, shared his struggle, stating, “I have a very large family, so it’s getting kind of hard. Whether the government is shut down or not, bills need to get paid.†He has been relying on a local food bank to feed his family during the shutdown.
Pro tip:– Individuals facing food insecurity can locate nearby food banks and assistance programs through the Feeding America website or by dialing 2-1-1. These resources provide crucial support during times of need.
Food banks are reporting they are already overwhelmed. One representative noted that they are “having to turn people away or they’re having to ration assistance so that everybody gets something.†The combination of high grocery prices and the government shutdown has created a perfect storm, pushing food banks to their breaking point.
The unfolding crisis underscores the far-reaching consequences of the political stalemate in Washington, impacting both the legislative process and the basic needs of millions of Americans.
Reader question:– How will the potential elimination of the filibuster affect the ability to resolve the current shutdown and address the growing food security crisis?
