US Senate Democrats rejected a Republican proposal to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on March 24, 2026, prolonging a partial government shutdown that has now entered its second month. The GOP plan, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, sought to resume funding for most DHS operations while excluding portions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) involved in deportation enforcement.
The stalemate has strained critical agencies including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), where staffing shortages at major airports have intensified since late February. Coast Guard operations and Federal Emergency Management Agency preparedness programs also face mounting pressure as negotiations stall.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer confirmed Democrats will present a counterproposal demanding ICE operational reforms. This follows January's fatal shootings of two Minneapolis residents by federal agents during an immigration enforcement operation, which amplified calls for agency accountability.
Despite five failed votes to pass DHS funding since mid-February, bipartisan talks show minimal progress. Analysts suggest the deadlock reflects deepening divisions over immigration policy ahead of November's midterm elections.
