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Jeffries Critiques GOP's DHS Funding Amid Shutdown Crisis

3/4/2026

Center

Jeffries Critiques GOP Funding

Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader (D-N.Y.), criticized the GOP Department of Homeland Security funding push, linking it to U.S. President Donald Trump’s Iran actions and urging focus on domestic issues after two U.S. citizens died by federal agents.
Republicans say the Iran conflict heightens security risks, making DHS funding necessary.
A Department of Homeland Security funding bill is set for a House vote, but Democrats demand immigration reforms before backing it, amid the shutdown.

Right

Gottheimer Proposes War Powers

Six House Democrats, led by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), propose a war powers resolution granting U.S. President Donald Trump 30 days to justify action in Iran.
The plan contrasts with Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY)'s support for a broader bill requiring congressional approval.
Gottheimer's measure would protect troops and allies while limiting ground deployments without authorization.
Jeffries expects strong Democratic backing for the Massie-Khanna bill, though he has not reviewed Gottheimer's alternative.

History

Historical Context

The War Powers Resolution, enacted on November 7, 1973, aimed to limit presidential military authority following the Vietnam War, which resulted in over 58,000 U.S. casualties. This law requires congressional approval for troop deployments, reflecting ongoing tensions between executive and legislative powers. Today, House Democrats, including Hakeem Jeffries, advocate for greater legislative oversight amid rising military tensions with Iran, underscoring the need for accountability in U.S. foreign policy.

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Jeffries Critiques GOP Funding

Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader (D-N.Y.), criticized the GOP Department of Homeland Security funding push, linking it to U.S. President Donald Trump’s Iran actions and urging focus on domestic issues after two U.S. citizens died by federal agents.
Republicans say the Iran conflict heightens security risks, making DHS funding necessary.
A Department of Homeland Security funding bill is set for a House vote, but Democrats demand immigration reforms before backing it, amid the shutdown.

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