Full Breakdown
Adam Schiff Opposes Funding for ICE Amid Controversy
1/25/2026, 11:49:05 PM
Schiff's Stance on ICE Funding
Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) has publicly declared his opposition to further funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol, citing concerns over their operational conduct under the Trump administration. During an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press," Schiff stated, “I’m not giving ICE or Border Patrol another dime given how these agencies are operating.” This statement comes in the context of recent ICE raids that have drawn significant political and public backlash.
Government Funding and Shutdown Risks
Schiff emphasized that Democrats are prepared to oppose any Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding that includes allocations for ICE. He indicated that if Republicans insist on coupling this funding with other government expenditures, it could lead to another government shutdown. “The government will shut down if Republicans insist that that be joined with other government funding,” he asserted, placing the responsibility for any potential shutdown on Republican lawmakers.
Potential Impact of Withholding Funds
When questioned about the implications of withholding funding, Schiff expressed hope that it would prevent further escalation of violence associated with ICE operations. He noted that Republicans have already allocated $170 billion in additional DHS funding through a measure they refer to as the "One Big Beautiful Bill." Schiff criticized the lack of oversight regarding how these funds are utilized, suggesting that significant waste, fraud, and abuse could occur without proper accountability.
Criticism of Current Funding Practices
Schiff's remarks reflect a broader concern among Democrats regarding the management of DHS resources. He stated, “There is going to be enormous waste, fraud and abuse in DHS given how money is being spent without any kind of real oversight.” This perspective underscores a call for increased scrutiny of federal funding practices, particularly in relation to immigration enforcement.
Official Statements & Responses
In his interview, Schiff articulated a clear message: “If they don’t [vote against ICE funding], it will be their decision whether they couple that funding for these ICE agents and Border Patrol agents with all these other government agencies.” He urged Republicans to consider the public sentiment against ICE operations, hoping that some may be “repelled” by the current situation and choose to vote against continued funding.
Verbatim Quotes
- “not giving ICE or Border Patrol another dime given how these agencies are operating” — Adam Schiff, U.S. Senator
- “The government will shut down if Republicans insist that that be joined with other government funding. It will be a Republican decision. They understand we’re not going to go along with this.” — Adam Schiff, U.S. Senator
- “There is going to be enormous waste, fraud and abuse in DHS given how money is being spent without any kind of real oversight,” — Adam Schiff, U.S. Senator
Schiff's firm stance against ICE funding reflects ongoing tensions in U.S. immigration policy and the broader implications of federal funding decisions.
