WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans are moving this week to reopen the Department of Homeland Security and end the longest partial government shutdown in history.
The first votes could come as soon as Tuesday as GOP leaders attempt a new workaround to unlock the funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol. Democrats have blocked money for those agencies since mid-February, demanding policy changes after the fatal shootings of two protesters by federal agents.
The Republicans’ workaround involves budget reconciliation, a complicated maneuver that allows passage with a simple majority, circumventing the typical filibuster requirements.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., labeled the effort a “partisan sideshow,” asserting it would allocate funds without addressing accountability for the agencies involved.
With temporary funding nearly exhausted, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., stated that Republicans have exhausted options and must act swiftly.
GOP Strategy and Democratic Resistance
The estimated $70 billion resolution released by the Senate Budget Committee aims to fund ICE and Border Patrol for three years. Thune expressed hopes for a focused bill to pass by May 1, although party members push for including additional priorities.
Republicans worry that this might be their last chance for substantial legislative achievements before the election and are considering a second reconciliation bill to address other issues. Meanwhile, Democrats are advocating for reforms tied to accountability in immigration enforcement.
Amid criticisms, Congress has faced pressure to stabilize funding amidst escalating national security concerns, with the administration employing executive orders for temporary relief until a permanent solution is reached.
Senators remain split on the best path forward, with some announcing intentions to propose amendments that could complicate the process.
