The Senate GOP is facing a significant challenge as the government shutdown continues, with members divided over how to address critical funding shortfalls. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., is pushing for legislation to extend funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food aid to over 42 million Americans. However, his proposal is encountering resistance from party leaders and the White House, which are focusing instead on pressuring Senate Democrats to unlock the government and avoid a piecemeal approach to the crisis.
Hawley’s bill comes after the Trump administration warned over the weekend that SNAP funding would run out on Saturday, prompting them to divert emergency funds to keep the program operational. Despite the administration’s temporary fix, the Senate remains in gridlock, with Republicans struggling to secure a vote on the SNAP legislation. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has strongly opposed the so-called