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Government Funding · Homeland Security · ICE · Shutdown
Senators are discussing a proposal to end the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown by funding most of the department, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), but explicitly excluding funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) enforcement and removal operations.
The month-long stalemate, which caused significant disruptions like jammed airport security lines, saw a breakthrough after Republican senators met with President Donald Trump. Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated discussions were "very positive and productive," while Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer confirmed "both sides are working in a serious way." The proposed deal funds ICE's Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) but imposes new guardrails, positioning officers in traditional roles rather than immigration roundups.
Democrats demanded these changes, including mandating body cameras and identification for officers, following public outcry and deaths during ICE protests in Minneapolis. These restraints will also apply to ICE operations funded by Trump's tax breaks bill.
The Senate also confirmed Markwayne Mullin as the new Homeland Security secretary, replacing Kristi Noem, who oversaw the controversial immigration enforcement operations. Mullin indicated a willingness to address Democratic demands, such as requiring judicial warrants for home searches.
Senators expect to finalize written proposals for discussion on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
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