Walmart Denies Store Closure Rumors Amid Government Shutdown Concerns

Walmart has rejected claims circulating online that it plans to close stores in response to potential disruptions caused by a federal government shutdown and possible pauses in food assistance benefits. A Walmart spokesperson confirmed to Fox News that the rumors are false, stating that all locations will remain open for business.

The speculation emerged from social media posts suggesting some Walmart stores might shut down ahead of anticipated interruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which supports 42 million Americans. Although a government shutdown initially threatened to halt SNAP payments, two federal judges mandated the use of contingency funds to sustain benefits temporarily.

Videos on platforms like TikTok have shown users threatening theft if their food assistance stops. The Department of Agriculture warned that funding might not cover November SNAP payments due to the “current lapse in appropriations.” However, Walmart spokesperson Joe Pennington clarified to Snopes that the company has no plans to close stores on November 1.

Lawmakers continue debating blame over the shutdown, with Democrats citing Republican resistance to a broader budget deal and Republicans pointing to Democratic opposition to temporary funding measures. The federal government remains closed after failed negotiations, leaving essential services operational but agencies dependent on discretionary funds facing furloughs and suspended programs. No resolution has been reached to reopen the government or extend short-term funding.

Jim Mishler, a seasoned reporter with decades of experience covering politics and environmental issues, authored this report.