Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has indicated that most Democrats will block any appropriations measure that maintains current DHS funding levels without significant policy changes. Their primary target is U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which oversees federal deportation operations. Democratic lawmakers argue that funding should be withheld until the agency’s protocols are reformed and greater accountability is established. Republican leaders, however, have signaled that removing or reducing DHS allocations is not up for negotiation.
Bessent cautioned that another shutdown—less than four months after the previous one—could inflict lasting economic damage, particularly in service industries that see little recovery once federal spending halts. Recent analyses, including a 2019 report from the Congressional Budget Office, have shown that extended shutdowns reduce gross domestic product and diminish consumer confidence, with some losses never fully recouped (Congressional Budget Office).
Beyond economic considerations, the administration is attempting to defuse unrest in Minnesota, where demonstrations have escalated since the latest shooting. Trump on Tuesday said federal officials would “de-escalate” operations in the state, a shift from earlier statements that emphasized strict enforcement. According to Bessent, the president believes a calmer environment could help lawmakers focus on the budget deadline rather than the controversy surrounding ICE. Minnesota officials remain on heightened alert, and local leaders from both parties have called for transparent investigations into the two deaths.
The spending package approved by the House bundles DHS funding with other appropriations for defense, health programs and transportation. While most elements enjoy bipartisan backing, the inclusion of immigration-enforcement resources has turned the legislation into a broader referendum on the administration’s border strategy. If the Senate fails to pass the measure—or if the House cannot return in time to adopt a revised version—non-essential DHS employees would face furloughs, and several other agencies would operate with reduced staffing.
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Negotiators on Capitol Hill spent Wednesday searching for alternatives, including a short-term continuing resolution that would keep the government open while talks proceed. Yet even a temporary extension would require unanimous consent in the Senate, where a single objection could derail the effort. With the deadline rapidly approaching, federal departments have begun issuing contingency plans, and private contractors that depend on government work are bracing for potential disruptions.
Trump’s political advisers are mindful of the risks associated with another shutdown. The administration endured widespread criticism during the prior funding impasse, which ended only after airport delays and public pressure mounted. Some Republican senators have expressed concern that a repeat could undercut the party’s messaging ahead of the upcoming election cycle, especially in suburban districts where immigration crackdowns are unpopular.
For now, the president’s strategy hinges on persuading enough Senate Democrats to support the existing bill or at least allow a vote to proceed. Without a breakthrough, federal appropriations will expire at midnight Friday, leaving core homeland-security functions—such as airport screening and border patrol—operating without pay while numerous administrative programs grind to a halt.
Crédito da imagem: CNBC broadcast screen capture
