From Cornfields to Capitol: How SNAP Supports Farmers and Consumers

Lyndi Allen
October 10, 2025

The Farm Bill’s Nutrition Program Keeps Food Demand Steady

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest nutrition provision in the Farm Bill, linking food policy and farm policy. While its primary purpose is to help low-income families afford groceries, it also supports markets for farmers and retailers. SNAP connects rural farm families with urban neighbors, keeps small-town grocery stores alive, and sustains bipartisan support for the Farm Bill.


What is SNAP?


Both Political Parties Support SNAP

  • Democrats
  • Focus on reducing food insecurity and poverty
  • Urban lawmakers see direct benefits for their constituents
  • Republican
  • Emphasis on supporting local grocery stores and rural retailers where SNAP dollars are spent
  • Viewed as a stabilizer during economic downturns, helping farmers directly by maintaining demand
  • Both
  • Strong anti-hunger coalition
  • Recognition that every district has recipients


Ongoing Challenges to Food and Nutrition Supports

  • Spending levels and eligibility requirements remain consistent areas of debate
  • Recent proposals: work requirements, shifting cost burden to states, reducing benefits


Why SNAP Matters to Farmers Too

  • Stable consumer demand—ensures food produced on farms gets purchased
  • Steady customer base for rural grocery stores
  • Farm policy isn’t only for farmers, it’s about the food system


SNAP serves every community and is in place to help all Americans who need the service. SNAP’s role is essential for the Farm Bill, and understanding its role is key to how farm policy works in Washington, D.C.

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