Statement·other·said 2025-10-27
“There has to be a preexisting appropriation for the contingency fund to be used, and Democrats blocked that appropriation when they rejected the clean continuing resolution.”
Where they said it
No source recorded.
Verdict
Mixed
2025-10-31Reasoning
USDA's own September 30 lapse plan said the $5B+ contingency reserve "can and should be used" for SNAP during a shutdown, contradicting Johnson's legal interpretation. Federal judges subsequently ordered USDA to use the funds. FactCheck.org reported the interpretation as disputed by Democrats and some Republicans.
Proof of outcomewhat backs the verdict
Evidence chain
Loading graph…
Loading graph…