USDA Warns of SNAP Funding Cuts for 21 States Over Data Dispute

Post by : Mina Rahman

United States Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins, has issued a stern warning that 21 states led by Democrats may face cuts to their federal SNAP funding if they do not comply with requests for data on food assistance recipients.

In a cabinet meeting marking the end of the year, Rollins clarified that the request—targeting details such as Social Security numbers, birth dates, and addresses—aims to deter fraud and safeguard taxpayer interests. She accused states like California, New York, and Minnesota of resisting for political reasons.

“Twenty-nine states agreed—those being the red states,” Rollins stated. “However, 21 blue states are still refusing. As of next week, federal funding will cease for those states until they align with the requirements.”

Legal actions have already hindered the administration’s efforts for the data, with California courts issuing temporary restraining orders due to privacy and mass surveillance concerns. California Attorney General Rob Bonta characterized the initiative as “a hijacking of a nutrition program to promote widespread surveillance.”

Democratic leaders have denounced this announcement as an attempt to weaponize food security. Members of the House Agriculture Committee stated, “SNAP has one of the lowest fraud rates amongst government programs, yet Trump continues to weaponize hunger.”

Rollins defended the decision on social media with the assertion, “NO DATA, NO MONEY,” making unsubstantiated claims that some states are shielding “bribery schemes.”

Previously, the USDA had threatened to suspend SNAP benefits amid a government shutdown, but judicial rulings mandated a resumption of funding. Critics argue that this administration is leveraging food assistance to coerce Democratic legislators regarding budgetary issues.