Several more Republican senators have joined Sen. Josh Hawley’s (R-MO) effort to ensure food stamp benefits continue during the government shutdown.

The push underscores a rift within the Senate GOP conference about how best to navigate the shutdown and the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Some Republicans are holding firm to the notion that all the pressure should be put on Democrats, who have the ability to reopen the government at any time by voting for a clean spending bill.

Recommended Stories

Cornyn gets first Senate endorsement in race to succeed McConnell

Thune sours on ‘rifle shot’ bills as Republicans eye shutdown endgame

SNAP funds pause could be painful hit to grocers