Knox County Leader Calls for SNAP Restriction on Sugary Drinks ‘Common-Sense Reform’

Knox County, Tennessee Mayor Glenn Jacobs, a WWE Hall of Fame wrestler, stated on Thursday that a proposal to block Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients from using benefits to buy soda and sugary foods is a “common-sense reform” that reflects the program’s original mission and respects taxpayers.

About one in 10 Tennesseans receive SNAP, and Knox County has the third-highest number of beneficiaries in the state. The proposal comes as federal officials consider a rule that would keep SNAP recipients from purchasing items listing sugar, corn syrup, or high-fructose corn syrup as the first ingredient.

“Well, first of all,” Jacobs said during his remarks on Thursday, “we say SNAP benefits. This is food stamps. It’s what we used to call the program. We don’t call it that anymore.”

Jacobs noted that as SNAP is a taxpayer-funded program, reforms are necessary. “For some folks who are on the edge and are paying taxes so other people can buy candy bars and soda, that certainly seems to the people that are paying the program,” he added. “That certainly seems like this would be just a common-sense reform.”

The mayor also pointed out that lower-income Americans are more likely to be obese and suggested sugary drinks could contribute to health issues, framing the move as both a public health and fiscal issue.

“And I absolutely agree with that,” Jacobs said. “You know, one of the issues with government welfare is you get into this generational cycle and food stamps, or SNAP.”

Jacobs emphasized that the program was never designed to be a permanent solution. “It was never designed for people to stay on it,” he stated. “It’s really to help people survive through a tough period and get back on their feet, not necessarily for things like these sugary foods that we’re talking about.”

Jacobs also acknowledged that affordability is a pressing concern for many and believes Republicans should take action on the issue. “This is actually a winning issue for us,” he said. “It all goes back to taxes, spending, and regulation. You cut those things, and you would see prices drop. You would see better jobs. You just see a better economy.”

The interview concluded with Jacobs reflecting on 17-time world champion John Cena’s upcoming final WWE match and his standing among legends. “John is at the very top,” Jacobs said. “He has been the face of WWE for two decades, which is something that no one else has ever done.” He added that Cena deserves all the accolades he has received and expressed excitement about Cena’s future.