Fact Check: "Food insecurity rose significantly during Biden's presidency compared to Trump's."
What We Know
Food insecurity in the United States has seen fluctuations over recent years, particularly influenced by economic factors such as inflation and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the USDA, in 2023, approximately 13.5% of U.S. households were food insecure at some point during the year, which is a statistically significant increase from 12.8% in 2022. This translates to about 18 million households experiencing food insecurity in 2023, compared to 17 million in 2021, when government aid was more robust due to pandemic relief efforts (AP News).
The USDA's report also indicates that the prevalence of low food security rose from 7.7% in 2022 to 8.4% in 2023, while the rate of very low food security remained unchanged at 5.1% for both years (USDA). This data suggests that while overall food insecurity increased during Biden's presidency, the rates of very low food security did not show a statistically significant rise compared to the previous year.
Analysis
The claim that food insecurity rose significantly during Biden's presidency compared to Trump's is nuanced. While the statistics indicate an increase in food insecurity from 2022 to 2023, it is essential to consider the context of these numbers. The rise in food insecurity can be attributed to several factors, including the end of enhanced pandemic-related government support, rising inflation, and ongoing global supply chain issues exacerbated by events such as the war in Ukraine (USDA, AP News).
During Trump's presidency, food insecurity rates were notably high during the pandemic, peaking in 2020. However, the subsequent economic recovery and government assistance led to a decline in food insecurity rates in 2021. The increase observed in 2023 under Biden's administration can be seen as a return to pre-pandemic levels rather than a direct comparison to Trump's tenure.
Moreover, the USDA data shows that food insecurity rates in 2023 were statistically lower than levels observed from 2010 to 2014, suggesting that while there is an increase from the previous year, it does not represent an unprecedented crisis (USDA).
The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is generally high, as they come from reputable organizations such as the USDA and established news outlets. However, it is crucial to note that the framing of food insecurity can vary based on the political context and the specific metrics being emphasized.
Conclusion
The claim that food insecurity rose significantly during Biden's presidency compared to Trump's is Partially True. While there has been a notable increase in food insecurity from 2022 to 2023, this rise is influenced by multiple factors, including the end of pandemic-related support and inflation. Furthermore, the overall context of food insecurity rates suggests that the situation is not as dire as it may appear when viewed in isolation. Thus, while the claim holds some truth, it lacks the full context necessary for a comprehensive understanding.
Sources
- Food Security in the U.S. - Key Statistics & Graphics
- Food Security - United States Department of State
- Food insecurity shot up last year with inflation and the end ...
- Map the Meal Gap 2025 - Feeding America
- USDA Food Security Report Highlights Startling Hunger Crisis ...
- Fact-checking Biden’s claim about hunger 'sharply' dropping
- The 2024 USDA Food Security Report: An Alarming Rise in ...
