A standoff between U.S. congressional Republicans and Democrats over immigration enforcement is edging the federal government toward a partial shutdown as early as Saturday, putting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at the centre of the looming crisis.
The impasse comes in the wake of two fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis.
Democrats Demand Reforms
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the Senate, said his party will oppose new DHS funding until substantial reforms are implemented within Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“For weeks, we’ve been pushing commonsense reforms,” Schumer said, emphasizing the need for accountability and restraint.
Among the Democrats’ key demands:
Limits on ICE roaming patrols
A ban on agents wearing facemasks during operations
Requirement of judicial warrants for entering private property
The party’s opposition intensified after Renee Good and Alex Pretti, two U.S. citizens, were killed in January by ICE agents while protesting anti-immigration operations in Minneapolis.
Lawmakers are pressing for stricter use-of-force standards and greater accountability for ICE personnel. “Democrats will not support a blank check for chaos,” Schumer stated.
Republican Resistance and Negotiation
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed concerns, warning that ICE is “completely and totally out of control.” He added, “Taxpayer dollars should be used to make life more affordable for Americans, not to brutalize or kill them.”
Even if all 53 Republican senators vote to fund DHS, Senate rules require 60 votes to advance the budget, meaning some Democrats must agree for a deal to pass.
The White House responded with a counterproposal on Wednesday, which Senate Majority Leader John Thune described as “an extremely serious offer.” Democrats, however, rejected it.
“Half-measures will not cut it,” said Senate Democrat Patty Murray. “Our demands are reasonable, necessary, and non-negotiable.”
Agencies and Airports Brace
If no agreement is reached, thousands of federal workers could be furloughed, while many others may have to work without pay. However, ICE operations would continue using previously approved funds.
Other agencies, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), could see significant operational disruptions. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) warned on X that a prolonged shutdown could lead to staff shortages, longer wait times, and flight delays or cancellations.
A partial shutdown would mark the third government closure during Trump’s second term, following the record 43-day shutdown in October–November of last year.
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