Editor,
The current administration touts “America First!” but the facts are showing something very different. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), better known as food stamps, is facing drastic funding risks that could have taken effect as early as November 1. In South Carolina, an average of 581,600 people—about 10.6% of the state’s population—received SNAP benefits monthly in fiscal year 2024. As of August 2024, there were 4,845 households receiving SNAP benefits in Laurens County, representing the active cases for that month. These numbers are not abstract—they represent children, seniors, and working families right here in Laurens County who rely on this support to put food on the table.
At the same time, major proposals are now in play that would roll back large portions of the Affordable Care Act and cut the Medicaid program—both of which many in our community depend on for health-care access.
What will replace these vital supports? In short: NOTHING. The budget proposals passed by a Republican majority Congress and signed into law allocate no equivalent resources to make up for cuts to SNAP, ACA subsidies, or Medicaid expansion.
While we are in a government shutdown and our military and federal workers are not being paid, and SNAP is effectively paused, this administration recently sent a $20 billion bailout to Argentina’s right-wing government instead of using those funds to support programs that serve the American people in times of need. The decision to do this requires congressional approval but that did not happen. This speaks to how hollow the so-called “America First” policy really is. There is no approved budget to pay our military and federal workers now and citizens are being told there is no money to feed the less fortunate or provide essential health care but there is money to put Argentina’s government first.
Here in Laurens County, the consequences are real. If SNAP disappears or is deeply reduced, local grocery stores, food banks, and families in need will face major hardship. If health-care protections and Medicaid rollbacks proceed, those with chronic illness, low income, or limited access will pay a heavy price.
Here’s what local readers can do:
Contact our U.S. House and Senate representatives and insist that they protect SNAP, Medicaid, and ACA protections—and that they pass a responsible budget that safeguards basic nutrition and health care.
Support our local food banks, community clinics, and outreach programs—donate time, food, or resources now to strengthen the safety net before the worst hits.
Stay alert and informed: read local news, demand our elected officials have in person town hall meetings, attend the local Democratic Party meetings, and vote for leaders who commit to protecting the well-being of working families, not dismantling it.
Laurens County deserves better. Our community is only as strong as the most vulnerable among us. When our neighbors are fed and healthy, we all thrive. Let’s join together to keep Laurens County strong, fed, and healthy.
Susan Ramos, Laurens County
