Story perspectives

Senate Extends DHS Funding Amid Shutdown Fears and Demands Reform

1/31/2026

Center

Senate Extends Funding

The Senate has reached a two-week funding extension for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) amid shutdown fears.
The killings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents prompted Senate Democrats to demand reforms, including body cameras and conduct limits, while Senator Lindsey Graham blocked a funding package over sanctuary city legislation.
The House is out of session until Monday, complicating approval processes and increasing the likelihood of a weekend shutdown.

Right

Graham Blocks Funding

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) will speak January 30, 2026, about his hold on a revised funding package.
He seeks a vote on his sanctuary cities bill and to widen who may sue former Special Counsel Jack Smith.
Senate leaders face a midnight deadline to prevent a funding lapse as Graham blocks a deal.
U.S. President Donald Trump backs a bipartisan funding agreement and urges lawmakers to avoid a shutdown.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting 16 days, stemmed from budget disputes, particularly over the Affordable Care Act, leading to the furlough of approximately 800,000 federal employees. This event highlighted ongoing political gridlock, a trend dating back to the 1974 Budget Act, which has seen 27 funding gaps since its enactment. Today, similar tensions resurface as Senator Lindsey Graham blocks funding over sanctuary city legislation.

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Senate Extends Funding

The Senate has reached a two-week funding extension for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) amid shutdown fears.
The killings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents prompted Senate Democrats to demand reforms, including body cameras and conduct limits, while Senator Lindsey Graham blocked a funding package over sanctuary city legislation.
The House is out of session until Monday, complicating approval processes and increasing the likelihood of a weekend shutdown.

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