Fact Check: "45% of Americans believe SNAP is underfunded."
What We Know
A recent poll conducted by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 45% of Americans believe that food and nutrition assistance programs, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), are underfunded. This survey included responses from 1,158 adults and was conducted between June 5 and June 9, 2025. The results indicate that a significant portion of the population perceives these programs as insufficiently funded, with only about 30% of respondents stating that they believe these programs are receiving "about the right amount" of funding (Health News, AP News, DNyuz).
Analysis
The claim that 45% of Americans believe SNAP is underfunded is supported by multiple reputable sources. The AP-NORC poll, which is a well-regarded research initiative, shows a clear sentiment among respondents regarding the funding of SNAP. The poll's methodology is sound, utilizing a probability-based sample designed to be representative of the U.S. population, which enhances the reliability of the findings (Health News, AP News).
Moreover, the poll's results align with other surveys that reflect public opinion on SNAP funding. For instance, a survey conducted by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that 61% of registered voters opposed cuts to SNAP, indicating a strong belief that the program requires more support rather than less (Johns Hopkins). This further corroborates the claim that a significant portion of the population views SNAP as underfunded.
While the sources reporting this information are credible, it is important to note that the perception of funding adequacy can vary significantly across different demographic and political groups. For example, Republicans were more likely to express the view that too much is spent on food assistance programs compared to Democrats and independents (Health News, AP News). This partisan divide suggests that while a substantial number of Americans believe SNAP is underfunded, opinions on the matter can differ based on political affiliation.
Conclusion
The claim that 45% of Americans believe SNAP is underfunded is True. The evidence from multiple reputable polls consistently supports this assertion, indicating a significant public sentiment that food assistance programs need more funding rather than cuts. The methodology of the polling organizations involved lends additional credibility to these findings.
Sources
- Poll: Americans want Medicaid, SNAP funding maintained | Health News
- Survey: Nearly Two-Thirds Of Americans Oppose Cuts To SNAP Program
- Americans want Medicaid and food stamps funding maintained or increased
- Americans brace for welfare cuts in Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill'
- Poll: Many say Medicaid and food stamps are underfunded
- PDF Facts About SNAP: A National Survey of American Voters
- As GOP pushes spending cuts, many say Medicaid and food stamps are underfunded
