The Senate is expected to vote on a measure Thursday to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This move is an attempt to largely end the ongoing partial government shutdown, which reached its 47th day on Wednesday.

Bipartisan Agreement and Two-Step Approach

The proposed solution involves a two-step process. The current agreement aligns with a bipartisan Senate plan initially developed with Democrats. This plan would fund the majority of DHS, excluding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Border Patrol.

Future Funding for ICE and Border Patrol

Republicans intend to pursue separate, party-line legislation to fund ICE and Border Patrol at a later date. This process could take months to complete. Former President Trump has requested that this legislation be prepared and on his desk by June 1st, aiming to secure funding for these agencies throughout his term.

Political Reactions and Concerns

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Senator John Thune (R-S.D.) expressed their desire to end the shutdown, stating, “We appreciate and share the President’s determination to once and for all bring an end to the Democrat DHS shutdown.”

However, the plan faces potential opposition from within the Republican party. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) criticized the Republican divisions, stating, “Republican divisions derailed a bipartisan agreement, making American families pay the price for their dysfunction.”

Representative Scott Perry (R-Pa.) voiced strong opposition on X, stating that funding cuts to CBP and ICE would equate to defunding law enforcement and opening the borders. He declared his opposition to the vote if it proceeds as planned.

Shutdown Impact and Next Steps

The shutdown has resulted in thousands of Homeland Security workers reporting to work without pay. This has led to increased call-outs from Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents, causing significant security lines at major airports. Backpay for agents has begun to alleviate these issues.

The Senate will hold a pro-forma session Thursday, where they may attempt to pass the previously approved measure through unanimous consent. If successful, the bill will be sent to the House for consideration. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries called for full funding of DHS, excluding what he termed Trump’s “violent mass deportation machine.”