Government Shutdown Threatens SNAP, Health Premiums Expected to Double

Tomorrow, 42 million Americans may lose SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown. Health premiums will rise.

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Key Developments Impacting Millions

Imminent government shutdown effects looming over numerous Americans as critical programs brace for significant disruptions. Approximately 42 million individuals reliant on SNAP food benefits will see those benefits halted. Meanwhile, the commencement of enrollment on federal insurance exchanges is anticipated, with premium rates expected to more than double, highlighting the escalating cost concerns. While Democrats are prepared to support reopening, their condition remains clear: Congress must extend health care subsidies. Airlines, on their part, urge Congress to endorse the Republican plan, stressing the plight of unpaid air traffic controllers.

The air traffic control tower is seen at Orlando International Airport in Orlando, Florida early morning on Oct. 31. Flights at Orlando International Airport faced major delays on Oct. 30, after the Federal Aviation Administration said the airport had no certified air-traffic controllers in its tower, forcing arrivals to be halted or severely delayed amid the ongoing US government shutdown. Miguel J. Rodriguez Carrillo/AFP via Getty Images

Political Standoff

🎧 Democrats remain unwavering in their stance on the government shutdown, according to NPR’s Barbara Sprunt on Up First. The party is confident that public sentiment will pressure Republicans, especially regarding expected health insurance premium hikes. Republicans counter with their own proposals, stating that if Democrats prioritize nutrition aid and air traffic controller payments, they would align with the Republican votes.

SNAP benefits face an unprecedented cutoff due to the shutdown, prompting judicial intervention. A federal judge will decide on whether to compel the Trump administration to ensure food access. The Agriculture Department has announced inadequate funds for SNAP benefits next month, stating “the well has run dry.” Legal battles initiated by Democratic governors and attorneys general argue that SNAP is an entitlement that cannot be simply cut off.

🎧 Despite potential judicial rulings, delays in fund distribution are inevitable, as noted by NPR’s Jennifer Ludden. The administration reports a shortfall in the contingency fund, which complicates timely and full payments. Partial recalculations may prolong the delay, leaving beneficiaries with reduced aid.

International Security Concerns

President Trump’s decision to resume nuclear weapons testing is sparking international discourse. Experts warn this could significantly alter the global nuclear equilibrium. Historically, nuclear powers have adhered to a testing moratorium post-Cold War, favoring scientific methods to ensure weapon efficacy. However, renewed testing by adversaries could challenge the U.S.’s technological lead, says Jon Wolfsthal of the Federation of American Scientists.

🎧 The U.S.’s technological edge in nuclear capabilities remains significant, but testing by rivals like Russia and China could reduce this advantage. Environmental implications of testing, even if radiation remains contained, pose risks to nearby infrastructure, NPR’s Geoff Brumfiel reports.

Scientific Breakthroughs

A new Alzheimer's drug offers hope for high-risk patients

Scientists are taking a second look at a drug for Alzheimer’s that may help patients who are particularly at risk of developing the disease. Jorg Greuel/Photodisc/Getty Images

Research into an experimental Alzheimer’s drug, valiltramiprosate or ALZ-801, is reigniting optimism for a potentially groundbreaking treatment. Initial studies showed no significant improvement in the drug’s recipients compared to a placebo. However, further analysis of a subgroup with mild memory issues indicated a 52% reduction in cognitive decline.

💊 The small sample size in the mild cognitive impairment group poses challenges in assessing ALZ-801’s true impact.

💊 Given its potential benefits, the FDA may consider ALZ-801 for special approval. It offers advantages over existing drugs, such as home administration and fewer side effects.

💊 Continuous study participants may provide additional evidence of its efficacy, states David Watson, co-author of the study.

Read more about the new findings about the Alzheimer’s pill.

Weekend Recommendations

Green bean and chicken stir-fry from Roy Choi's cookbook

Green bean and chicken stir-fry is one of the many “vegetable-forward” recipes in Roy Choi’s cookbook, The Choi of Cooking: Flavor-Packed, Rule-Breaking Recipes for a Delicious Life: A Cookbook, which he co-wrote with Tien Nguyen and Natasha Phan. This dish uses the Sweet Garlic Teriyaki sauce you can find below. Bobby Fisher

Explore NPR’s cultural picks for the weekend:

🍿 Movies: Celebrate Halloween with a selection of horror films. Discover a range of titles here, from eerie supernatural stories to chillingly realistic tales, all available for home viewing.

📺 TV: Delve into the mysterious world of Talamasca: The Secret Order, a series exploring a secret society managing Anne Rice’s supernatural universe.

📚 Books: Dive into Wreck, the sequel to Catherine Newman’s Sandwich. Follow Rocky and her family as they navigate new challenges. Explore more new releases.

🎵 Music: Set the mood for Halloween with a curated playlist. Discover essential tracks here, ranging from haunting to nostalgic tunes.

🥦 Food: Elevate your veggies with three delicious sauces from The Choi of Cooking.

❓ Quiz: Think you can score higher than 7/11? Test your knowledge here.