Federal Judge Rules Against Freeze
On Wednesday a federal judge appointed by President Biden ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to release $80 million in SNAP administrative funds to Minnesota while legal fights continue. The judge said the USDA likely acted improperly when it gave Minnesota only 30 days to review eligibility for roughly 100,000 households facing fraud allegations. Courts are supposed to protect due process even when politics are loud and accusations fly.
USDA Had Moved to Suspend Funds
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the USDA would suspend federal financial awards to Minnesota and Minneapolis after alleging massive fraud in the state program. Her office told state and local leaders they had failed to provide basic information and had not taken common sense steps to stop the problems. The suspension was meant to force accountability as the USDA demanded reenrollment and stricter oversight.
Minnesota Sued and Refused to Comply
Rather than submit to the USDA demands Minnesota filed suit and pushed back, arguing the federal timeline and conditions were unreasonable. State officials said the review required by the USDA was too rushed and complex to meet in 30 days. So the state sought protection in court and succeeded for now in keeping the money flowing to run the program while the dispute is decided.
Allegations of Widespread Fraud
The USDA and the Trump administration say audits uncovered what they call rampant fraud siphoning billions from federal benefit programs in Minnesota and Minneapolis. These are serious charges and they appeal to voters tired of waste and abuse. But allegations need strong proof and legal standards must be followed before funds can be withheld permanently.
Political Heat and Strong Language
President Trump weighed in with blunt comments about communities he tied to fraud, drawing heavy criticism from opponents and praise from supporters who want decisive action. That rhetoric inflames an already heated fight between federal officials pushing for quick fixes and state leaders defending their processes and residents. Politics rarely helps when the courts are sorting facts from hyperbole.
What Happens Next in Court
The USDA can appeal the ruling and the legal battle will move forward as both sides present evidence about fraud claims and the reasonableness of the USDA timeline. For now the money remains available to administer SNAP in Minnesota while the courts decide whether the federal agency overstepped its authority or was right to demand immediate reforms.
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