House Speaker Mike Johnson Rejects Senate DHS Funding Deal Amid Government Shutdown

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has publicly rejected a bipartisan Senate bill aimed at funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which excludes funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This rejection comes amid a partial government shutdown that has lasted over 40 days, causing significant disruptions, particularly at airports. Johnson characterized the Senate's late-night deal as a "joke," asserting that it undermines the Republican stance on immigration enforcement.

NPR

The Senate's legislation, passed after a prolonged standoff, was designed to fund various DHS operations while omitting ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) funding. This exclusion stems from ongoing disputes regarding the enforcement tactics employed by these agencies, particularly following incidents involving the deaths of U.S. citizens at the hands of federal officers. The Senate bill aimed to alleviate the funding lapse that has forced many DHS employees to work without pay, leading to operational challenges, especially within the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

NPR

Johnson's stance has put him at odds with Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), who supported the Senate's funding proposal. Johnson implied that Thune lacked control over the Senate, suggesting that Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) was effectively dictating terms. This division highlights a broader rift within the Republican Party, as some members, particularly from the House Freedom Caucus, have expressed dissatisfaction with the Senate's approach.

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In response to the Senate's actions, Johnson stated, “I’m quite convinced that it can’t be that every Senate Republican read the language of this bill.” He announced plans to advance a short-term funding bill to keep DHS operational until May 22, which he believes aligns more closely with Republican priorities. Conversely, Schumer criticized Johnson's proposal, asserting that Democrats would not support funding without reforms to immigration enforcement practices.

The Independent

Despite Johnson's efforts to rally support for his funding proposal, dissent exists within the Republican ranks. Some GOP members have expressed concern over the optics of rejecting the Senate's bipartisan deal. Representative Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) noted, “I don’t believe a CR would be passed by the Senate,” indicating apprehension about the potential fallout from a continued shutdown.

Washington Examiner

While Johnson's proposal aims to fund all DHS operations, including ICE, it remains uncertain whether it will garner sufficient support from House Democrats, who have indicated a willingness to assist in passing the Senate's bill. However, Johnson's refusal to consider the Senate's agreement complicates the situation, as it may prolong the shutdown.

Washington Examiner

As the House prepares to vote on Johnson's short-term funding bill, the likelihood of its passage remains unclear. The Senate is currently in recess, and with many Republican senators absent, the dynamics surrounding the funding negotiations could shift. Johnson's approach may lead to further complications in reaching a consensus on DHS funding, potentially extending the government shutdown.

Washington Examiner

• “This gambit that was done last night is a joke,” — Mike Johnson, House Speaker

The Independent

• “ In a statement, Schumer said, “We’ve been clear from day one: Democrats will fund critical Homeland Security functions — but we will not give a blank check to Trump’s lawless and deadly immigration militia without reforms.” — Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader

Washington Examiner

• “America’s air travel system has reached its breaking point.” — Donald Trump, President

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