California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment of National Guard troops in November to support food banks across the state amid expected interruptions to federal food assistance caused by the government shutdown. Approximately 5.5 million Californians rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Newsom warned families to prepare for delays in benefits.
This initiative contrasts sharply with President Donald Trump’s prior use of National Guard troops in California, which focused on guarding federal buildings and immigration enforcement. Newsom has opposed Trump’s deployments to Democrat-led cities, citing state authority to protect residents.
To address food insecurity, Newsom is fast-tracking $80 million in funding for food banks in nearly every California county. The National Guard and volunteers will help pack and distribute meals, building on efforts from the COVID-19 pandemic when troops assisted in delivering 800 million meals statewide.
The California Immigrant Policy Center expressed concern that the National Guard presence might create apprehension due to Trump’s immigration-related deployments but welcomed the humanitarian focus of Newsom’s plan. Additional support will come from volunteers in a state-run program.
Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement Director Josh Fryday emphasized California’s commitment to helping communities as federal resources are reduced, highlighting the state’s role in stepping up during this emergency. Further details about the deployment will be shared as November 1 approaches.
