House Speaker Mike Johnson announced plans to introduce a revised Department of Homeland Security funding bill after the agency entered a partial shutdown in mid-February over disagreements on immigration enforcement spending.
The DHS has operated under partial shutdown conditions since February 14 due to a standoff between Republicans seeking robust funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection, and Democrats who have opposed the measures. Senate Republicans previously passed a reconciliation package to fund the agency, but Johnson said the upper chamber’s approach contained problematic provisions.
Johnson’s Concerns About Senate Measure
Johnson told reporters the Senate legislation contained “problematic language because it was haphazardly drafted” and would effectively “orphan” immigration enforcement efforts. “We have a modified version that I think is going to be much better for both chambers,” Johnson said.
The House Speaker emphasized the stakes of the funding gap. “We have to make sure that immigration law is enforced, and the border is safe and secure,” Johnson said.
Republican Push to Change Senate Rules
Following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, some Republicans have called for eliminating the 60-vote filibuster threshold to advance DHS funding. “At a moment of national danger, if Democrats refuse to fund DHS, I will say this would be the time to nuke the filibuster for good,” Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., said during a television interview.
Sen. Johnson urged swift action on the measure. “We need to hold a vote right away. Let’s find areas of agreement and make this country safer,” he said, questioning whether Senate Democrats elected as moderates would support the funding package.
Trump and Administration Officials Weigh In
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned that funds allocated for DHS worker salaries will deplete by the end of April without additional appropriations. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, calling for Republican unity on the reconciliation package to bypass Democratic obstruction.
“The Radical Left Democrats have kept DHS shut down since February 14th,” Trump wrote, praising Johnson’s efforts. “Our Great Speaker, Mike Johnson, is working hard to end the Democrat Shut Down, and pass the first step of a plan to get FULL FUNDING for our incredible ICE and Border Patrol Agents.”
Trump urged House Republicans to align with the Senate measure. “The Senate passed this Blueprint last week on Thursday morning, and now, House Republicans must UNIFY, and pass the same Blueprint to get the Bill done,” Trump wrote, requesting the final bill reach his desk by June 1.
This story has been updated. CNN’s political team contributed to this report.
