Senate GOP Advances Reconciliation for DHS Funding

Senate Republicans are set to advance a budget resolution this week to launch a partisan reconciliation process aimed at providing funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection, agencies at the heart of a prolonged partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security.

The resolution, drafted by Senate Budget Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, directs about $70 billion toward the two agencies for at least three years, covering the remainder of President Donald Trump's term without requiring regular appropriations. This move comes as the DHS has operated without full funding since February 14, marking the longest such shutdown in U.S. history. Democrats have blocked standalone funding bills, insisting on reforms to immigration enforcement practices, including raids conducted by ICE agents.

Republican leaders, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota, emphasize keeping the measure narrow to expedite passage through both chambers and avoid procedural delays. The strategy allows Republicans to secure the funding with a simple majority vote, sidestepping Democratic opposition. "The goal is to ensure that those...