Story perspectives

Democrats Demand Immigration Reforms Amid DHS Funding Standoff

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

House Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), demand reforms to U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement policies, linking them to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding.
The reforms come as Trump's immigration policies trigger a five-day DHS halt.
Democrats seek a ban on face masks and mandatory arrest warrants.
A White House official said parties are divided on the proposal, and Republicans must accept reforms to move DHS funding.

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Story summary

House Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), demand reforms to U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement policies, linking them to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding.
The reforms come as Trump's immigration policies trigger a five-day DHS halt.
Democrats seek a ban on face masks and mandatory arrest warrants.
A White House official said parties are divided on the proposal, and Republicans must accept reforms to move DHS funding.