WASHINGTON (AP) — The impasse over funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is likely to continue into next week as House Republicans weigh a bipartisan Senate proposal they had earlier rejected. This proposal would fund most of the agency but exclude immigration enforcement operations.
The standoff is now in its 48th day, with both chambers of Congress conducting brief pro forma sessions without resolution. However, Republican leadership, alongside President Trump, has shown a willingness to move forward with a plan to fully fund DHS using a two-step approach. This newfound alignment follows a period of separate paths pursued by congressional leaders, which ultimately forced Congress to adjourn for its spring recess without a solution.
During Thursday's sessions, Senate Majority Leader John Thune set aside the House's initial proposal to fund the agency for the next 60 days while hinting at the possibility of passing the bipartisan Senate measure. I don’t know the particulars around what the House will do with it, Thune remarked. My assumption is, at some point, hopefully, they’ll move it.”
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Thune have indicated their intent to revisit the Senate proposal that funds most of DHS while deferring funding for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Border Patrol. Republicans aim to address the funding for these agencies through separate legislation, a process that could take considerable time.
Despite the direction from Republican leaders and Trump’s endorsement, dissent within the GOP over the handling of immigration enforcement financing continues to pose hurdles to the proposed strategies. Thune acknowledged that balancing perspectives is pivotal, stating, 'The thing that some people want to do, we can’t do.' He emphasized the need for Congress to navigate within practical limits and focus on achievable outcomes.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Republicans for their slow response, contending that their divisions hindered necessary bipartisan agreements and placed undue burdens on American families. He said, Republican divisions derailed a bipartisan agreement, making American families pay the price for their dysfunction.
While some Republican representatives express concerns about compromising on funding for ICE and Border Patrol, a broader budget package is expected later in the year to secure long-term financing for these agencies, potentially sidestepping immediate pressures.
In the meantime, many DHS employees continue working without compensation during the shutdown. Frustrations are mounting for travelers as security agents from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) report for duty but face delays due to the ongoing funding crisis. While conditions appear to be improving, with recent executive orders helping to expedite back pay for agents, challenges remain.
As House Republicans plan to discuss next steps, the future of DHS funding hangs in the balance as lawmakers confront the ongoing complexities of their negotiations.
___
AP Congressional Correspondent Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report.
