Story perspectives

U.S. Government Faces Shutdown Over DHS Funding Dispute

1/29/2026

Center

Senate Democrats Demand Reforms

The U.S. government faces a partial shutdown starting January 31 over DHS funding.
Senate Democrats, after killings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents, demand immigration enforcement reforms before funding DHS.
They seek an enforceable code of conduct for agents and accountability measures.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune says negotiations are needed, and the funding package must stay intact while the House is in recess until February 2.

Right

Senate Deadline Approaches

A potential government shutdown will start at 12:00:01 a.m. ET on January 31, affecting six areas and 78% of federal spending.
Lawmakers have until February 2 to resolve the issue before most federal workers return.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will pay employees on February 3, but air traffic controllers may receive partial paychecks later.
Senate Democrats are advocating for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reforms, complicating negotiations.
The Senate must act quickly to avoid a shutdown, with a deadline approaching on Friday night.

History

Historical Context

The 16-day U.S. government shutdown in October 2013 stemmed from budget disputes over the Affordable Care Act, with 800,000 federal employees furloughed. This conflict highlighted deep partisan divisions, particularly between Republicans, led by House Speaker John Boehner, and Democrats, who insisted on implementing the ACA. The shutdown's repercussions included significant economic losses, costing the government an estimated $24 billion.

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Senate Democrats Demand Reforms

The U.S. government faces a partial shutdown starting January 31 over DHS funding.
Senate Democrats, after killings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents, demand immigration enforcement reforms before funding DHS.
They seek an enforceable code of conduct for agents and accountability measures.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune says negotiations are needed, and the funding package must stay intact while the House is in recess until February 2.

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