WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Mike Johnson is bracing for tough negotiations as he seeks to advance a crucial federal funding package necessary to avoid a prolonged government shutdown. The urgency arises amidst heightened discussions regarding immigration enforcement policies initiated during the Trump administration.
Johnson has indicated he is leaning on support from former President Donald Trump to steer the funding package closer to passage. Trump recently negotiated to separate funding for the Department of Homeland Security from a wider legislative package, following public backlash tied to two tragic shooting incidents in Minneapolis linked to Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities. As part of the new agreement, funding for the DHS is temporarily set to extend until February 13, after which Congress will need to come to terms on new restrictions regarding ICE operations.
During an appearance on Fox News Sunday, Johnson remarked, “The president is leading this.” He emphasized that Trump's approach aims to reduce federal immigration operations, reflecting broader concerns both inside and outside of Congress.
Johnson's first major test will occur Monday at a committee meeting where he will require unanimous support from his GOP colleagues to advance the funding package after Democrats signaled they would not provide votes to expedite the process. Johnson expressed optimism that the package could be ready for a full House vote by Tuesday.
Democratic Demands for ICE Changes
On the other side of the aisle, Democrats are pushing back against current ICE practices, advocating for reforms that would go beyond a mere allocation of $20 million for body cameras already included in the legislation. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries highlighted the need for dramatic reforms at the Department of Homeland Security, criticizing current operations as overly aggressive and lacking accountability. “Masks should come off,” he asserted, arguing for the necessity of judicial warrants before agents execute home entries or detentions.
Republican Stances and Additional Demands
Simultaneously, House Republicans are voicing their own demands as they align with Trump’s immigration stances. The House Freedom Caucus is advocating for greater funding for Homeland Security, and some members are pushing for the inclusion of conservative initiatives like the SAVE Act, which would necessitate proof of citizenship for voting eligibility.
Johnson has committed to engaging with lawmakers to align support and secure the necessary votes for the funding package.
Impact of the Government Shutdown
A partial shutdown is currently affecting numerous federal agencies, with essential services facing potential disruptions as the standoff continues. Concerns loom around the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which plays a critical role in responding to disasters and supporting local communities.
This marks the second significant government operation disruption within a matter of months, a reminder of the ongoing tensions over funding processes as Congress navigates political divides. In the backdrop looms the memory of the record-setting 43-day shutdown last year initiated by Democrats to advocate for health insurance tax breaks.
Administration's Desire for Swift Resolution
Trump has indicated an interest in expediting discussions to resolve the current budget impasse. Johnson relayed his recent interactions with Trump and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, portraying a collaborative spirit towards achieving a deal on immigration reforms. However, he also acknowledged potential pitfalls regarding proposals that could compromise the safety of law enforcement personnel.
As pressure mounts from Democrats advocating for accountability and more humane immigration practices, Johnson faces a labyrinth of partisan demands as he works to shepherd the funding package through Congress, underscoring the complexities of navigating governmental operations amidst deeply entrenched divisions.
