Funding Standoff Deepens Ahead of Government Deadline
The White House is standing firm against Democratic demands as a growing funding dispute puts the federal government closer to a partial shutdown.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has warned that Democrats will block a major federal spending bill unless funding for the Department of Homeland Security is removed and renegotiated. However, Republicans have made it clear they will not reopen talks on DHS spending.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced that position during a Monday briefing. She stressed that the overall funding package already reflects bipartisan negotiations between the House and Senate.
White House Defends Bipartisan Spending Deal
Leavitt said Democrats already played a role in shaping the legislation they now oppose. For that reason, the White House wants the Senate to move forward with the bill as written.
She added that immigration policy discussions are ongoing. Still, she argued those talks should not disrupt funding that supports government services for Americans.
According to Leavitt, the administration supports passing the full appropriations package without delay.
DHS Funding Fight Tied to Minneapolis Shooting
Democratic opposition intensified after a deadly encounter involving a Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis. The agent fatally shot Alex Pretti, a nurse who worked with military veterans, during protests linked to President Trump’s immigration policies.
Both parties have called for investigations into the shooting. However, Democrats are the only group threatening to withhold federal funding over the incident.
Leavitt noted that DHS funding also supports agencies like FEMA, which is responding to severe weather impacts across the country. She warned that delaying funds could hurt communities still dealing with storm damage.
Senate Clock Ticks Toward Shutdown Deadline
The DHS portion of the bill already includes restrictions on ICE. These include body camera requirements and additional training focused on de-escalation and public engagement.
Even so, anger over the Pretti case has left Democrats demanding further reforms. Senate Republicans need Democratic votes to meet the 60-vote threshold required to advance the bill.
Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader John Thune has moved ahead with procedural steps to bring the package to a vote this week. That move limits Democrats’ leverage.
If lawmakers change the bill, it would have to return to the House. GOP leaders have said they have no plans to reconvene, making a shutdown increasingly likely.
