Letters

In a recent article about SNAP (Supplemental Assistance Benefits Program) being caught up in the most recent government shutdown [“SNAP Funding Turmoil Hits East End Food Pantries Ahead of Winter Season,” 27east.com, October 30], and the consequences to East End food pantries, Congressman Nick LaLota was quoted to the effect that he would insist that Democrats pass the latest continuing resolution to fund the government to restore SNAP benefits.

Some thoughts on Mr. LaLota blaming Democrats:

Democrats were reluctant to back the continuing resolution since it didn’t extend Affordable Care Act insurance subsidies, but agreed after Senate Republican leader John Thune promised a separate vote in December. House Speaker Mike Johnson was unsure if the House would act, leaving those dependent on subsidies uncertain about their health coverage.

In July of this year, President Donald Trump signed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act,” a measure that will reduce SNAP program funding by $186 billion over the next decade. These cuts are based on revised eligibility rules, tougher work requirements, and shifting administrative expenses to state governments.

When this law reduces SNAP funding, local food charities will face extensive challenges in meeting community needs. Alternatively, the election of a veto-proof Democratic Congress could result in the reinstatement of both SNAP benefits and health insurance subsidies. It’s too bad that we’ll have to wait until January 2027 for a return to a more enlightened government.

One last thing: According to the Congressional Budget Office, the richest 1 percent is expected to receive an annual tax cut of $50,000 under the “Big, Beautiful Bill Act.”

It is all about priorities.

Mike Anthony

Westhampton

Anthony is a former chair of the Southampton Democratic Committee — Ed.