DHS Shutdown: Johnson Reverses Course

Speaker Mike Johnson is under fire after appearing to concede to Senate Majority Leader John Thune regarding a path to end the ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The decision came after initial criticism from House Republicans and former President Donald Trump concerning the Senate’s approach.

The Agreement and Initial Reactions

The agreement involves passing a funding bill that cleared the Senate but excludes funding for immigration enforcement. This marks a shift from Johnson’s previous stance just days prior. Democrats also voiced their disapproval, accusing Johnson of prioritizing a quick resolution over securing border security measures.

Joint Statement from Johnson and Thune

Johnson and Thune released a joint statement outlining the two-track approach. “In following this two-track approach, the Republican Congress will fully reopen the department, make sure all federal workers are paid, and specifically fund immigration enforcement and border security for the next three years so that those law-enforcement activities can continue uninhibited,” the statement read. They also asserted that Democrats would be demonstrating support for “open borders.”

Democratic Response and Funding Concerns

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that Democrats “never wavered” in their demands for immigration enforcement restrictions in exchange for funding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). ICE is currently operating on funds allocated through former President Trump’s tax law, which provides funding through 2029.

Republican Concerns and Potential Obstacles

Despite the announced deal, immediate opposition arose within the Republican party. Concerns were raised about the timeline for enacting the legislation and securing President’s signature. Representative Keith Self expressed concerns that excluding ICE and CBP funding would leave border security vulnerable to those seeking to defund and dismantle it.

Lack of Member Input

Some lawmakers claimed they were not consulted on the agreement. One representative stated, “I, for one — and I’m sure most of the members — haven’t heard of any deal, and without input from members, there is no deal.” The House is currently in a two-week Easter recess and is scheduled to return on April 13th. Lawmakers will also begin working on funding for the next fiscal year, which begins October 1st, requiring bipartisan support.