Story perspectives

Democrats Discuss DHS Reopening, Exclude Schumer from Talks

3/21/2026

Center

Homan Negotiates Reopening

Tom Homan met with centrist Democrats on March 19, 2026 to discuss reopening the Department of Homeland Security.
The meeting excluded Senate Democratic Leader Charles E. Schumer, signaling a narrower negotiation.
Attendees included Senators Catherine Cortez Masto, Maggie Hassan, and Angus King; Cortez Masto urged substantial reforms.
A Democratic source expressed skepticism about excluding Schumer from negotiations.
Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton criticized Schumer, saying voters want “fighters” in Washington.

Right

Thune Demands DHS Funding

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) says the Senate will not recess on March 30 until DHS funding is resolved.
DHS has been partially shut down since February 13 because Senate Democrats blocked a House-passed funding bill.
Democrats seek DHS funding excluding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), while Republicans call that approach untenable.
Recent domestic attacks heighten concerns, prompting some Democrats to fund other DHS components as ICE talks continue.

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Homan Negotiates Reopening

Tom Homan met with centrist Democrats on March 19, 2026 to discuss reopening the Department of Homeland Security.
The meeting excluded Senate Democratic Leader Charles E. Schumer, signaling a narrower negotiation.
Attendees included Senators Catherine Cortez Masto, Maggie Hassan, and Angus King; Cortez Masto urged substantial reforms.
A Democratic source expressed skepticism about excluding Schumer from negotiations.
Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton criticized Schumer, saying voters want “fighters” in Washington.

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