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As the shutdown entered week five, Vice President JD Vance said the White House had little power to help even as it held billions that could sustain SNAP. After a federal judge intervened, President Trump signaled he could use those funds, yet timing for benefits remains unclear. The administration has redirected money to shield the military and law enforcement while allowing anti-poverty programs — including SNAP, Head Start and home heating aid — to falter. Budget experts called some maneuvers unusual. Two courts found officials acted unlawfully, and one ordered emergency payments for SNAP this week.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.