Senate Passes DHS Funding Bill Excluding ICE and CBP, Sparking GOP Backlash

The Senate approved a Democratic-backed bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with the notable exception of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The measure, passed by unanimous consent in the early hours of Friday, ensures continued funding for agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which has been a focal point amid recent airport delays. However, ICE and CBP remain unfunded, with Democrats insisting on reforms before providing financial support to these agencies. Both ICE and CBP still have access to significant discretionary funds, allowing them to operate despite the lack of new appropriations.

House Republicans, led by Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, have expressed opposition to the Senate bill and are considering their own approach. Johnson reportedly plans to hold a vote on a bill that would fund the entire DHS, including ICE and CBP, for 60 days. This move signals the House’s reluctance to pass the Senate’s version, which excludes funding for the two immigration enforcement agencies. The timing of the House vote remains uncertain, and Johnson has yet to make an official announcement. Former President Donald Trump has not publicly commented on the Senate bill but could influence the House’s direction.

The Senate bill’s exclusion of ICE and CBP funding has drawn sharp criticism from conservative House Republicans. Some members have accused the Senate of abandoning their responsibilities and called for amendments to include funding for ICE and voter identification provisions. Representative Tim Burchett of Tennessee criticized the Senate for leaving town without addressing the issue, while Representative Keith Self of Texas described the Senate’s action as “cowardly.” Representative Ralph Norman of South Carolina labeled the bill “irresponsible” and insisted that voter ID and ICE funding must be part of any DHS funding package.

Democratic leaders have maintained a firm stance against funding ICE and CBP without reforms. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York stated that any House bill funding these agencies without restrictions would fail to secure the 60 votes needed in the Senate. Representative Susie Lee of Nevada highlighted recent incidents involving ICE agents, emphasizing the need for “guardrails” on the agency. Meanwhile, moderate Democrats like Representative Tom Suozzi of New York expressed frustration with the ongoing stalemate, noting that the public is tired of political gridlock and wants lawmakers to reach an agreement to fund the government effectively. The impasse leaves the fate of DHS funding uncertain as lawmakers return from recess.