From KCRW in Santa Monica and PRI, Public Radio International, this is To the Point.

Despite tough times, is there a war on food stamps?

Hello again, I'm Marvin Alney, and this is To the Point from Public Radio International,

a daily look at the issues Americans care about most.

Federal money for food stamps has almost doubled since the start of the Great Recession.

The Census Bureau says that's kept four million people out of poverty.

But Republicans in Congress say it's increased dependency on handouts.

They want to cut $39 billion in food stamp money over the next 10 years.

Federal actions not very likely, but Kansas, Ohio, and other states will be doing it on their own.

Is it tough love to encourage personal responsibility?

Or is it draconian, heartless, and cruel in an era of high unemployment and an economic recovery that's leaving more and more people behind.

Today's talking point, shopping malls, and dreams of Africa's future.

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Hello again, Mormon Alney back with To the Point. Democrats say a massive increase in food stamps is helping millions to stay out of poverty

in economic hard times. Republicans say food stamps spending is out of control, and they're calling

for major reductions. On Capitol Hill, the debate is still raging, but Republican leaders in several

states are about to act on their own. We'll hear what that's going to mean. Today's talking point, it's no accident

that Tarivist chose a shopping mall in Nairobi instead of a government building or a train

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