Free speech has long been considered one of the United States most important ideals,

but the idea of free speech has never really applied to everyone.

I thought very simply, some people have a lot more power to speak than others.

You can listen to Code Switch on the NPR app or wherever you get your podcasts.

Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Windsor Johnston. The Senate could vote later today on legislation that would temporarily end the government shutdown. If the bill passes, it would next head to the House.

Speaker Mike Johnson says he's ready to move forward. I will call all House members to return to Washington as quickly as

possible. We'll give a 36-hour formal and official notice so that we can vote as soon as

possible. Senator Tim Kane is one of the Democrats who support the bill.

He says many Republicans are eager to resolve the impasse before it hurts them politically.

Based on the conversations I've had with Republicans, that many of them really want to fix this,

and they know if they don't, the midterm elections will make last week's

2025 elections look like a good night for them. The legislation would fund the government

through the end of January, including full funding for SNAP benefits. It also includes a future

vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, a key Democratic demand.

Millions of Americans who receive federal food assistance remain in limbo

as the Trump administration appeals of federal judge's ruling to fully fund

SNAP payments this month.

Nick De La Canal, a member station WFAE, reports food assistance organizations are feeling the strain.

Have a great day, ma'am.

Thank you so much.

A line of cars wraps around the block at a food share in Charlotte for people who receive SNAP benefits.

Some here say they received partial payments on Friday, but it wasn't much.

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