Funding Standoff Drags On in Washington
The partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security moved into its fourth day as Senate Democrats continued to block funding over proposed changes to ICE policies.
Lawmakers left town without a deal in place. As a result, talks between Senate Democrats and the White House now face added pressure to produce a breakthrough this week.
Negotiations appeared stalled for much of Monday. The White House had already submitted a counteroffer to Democratic demands last week, but Democrats rejected it and stopped a funding extension from moving forward.
However, momentum shifted late Monday night. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s office confirmed that Democrats sent their own counterproposal to the White House. That move reopened the door for further discussions.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he remains cautious but hopeful. He questioned whether Democrats truly want a deal or plan to use the shutdown for political leverage. Still, he signaled that Republicans are willing to keep negotiating.
White House Pushes for Resolution
The Trump administration says it wants the government reopened quickly. A White House official stated that the president supports continued good faith talks with Democrats.
Meanwhile, officials warned that the shutdown affects several major agencies under DHS. These include the Transportation Security Administration, FEMA, the Coast Guard and the Secret Service. Disruptions to those agencies could have broad national impacts if the standoff continues.
The shutdown began after Democrats insisted on reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They outlined ten proposed changes, arguing that ICE agents should follow accountability standards similar to local and state law enforcement.
Deep Divide Over ICE Authority
Republicans have indicated they may accept some adjustments. However, they have drawn clear limits. For example, GOP lawmakers oppose requiring ICE agents to obtain judicial warrants for certain actions. They also reject proposals that would prevent agents from wearing face coverings during enforcement operations.
Democrats frame their demands as basic oversight measures. Senator Elizabeth Warren said the issue comes down to accountability. In her view, ICE agents should follow the same rules as other officers who operate in American communities.
Despite sharp rhetoric from both sides, negotiations are ongoing. Whether a compromise emerges this week remains uncertain. Until then, the DHS shutdown continues, with both parties blaming the other for the impasse.
