Story perspectives

Senate GOP Fast-Tracks Immigration Funding Amid DHS Shutdown

4/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senate Republicans, with U.S. President Donald Trump’s support, plan to fast-track immigration enforcement funding amid a prolonged DHS shutdown.
They would use the budget reconciliation process, which does not require Democratic votes.
Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso and Senator Lindsey Graham lead the effort, targeting completion by June 1.
House Republicans remain divided on backing the Senate plan or waiting for progress on reconciliation package amid 58-day DHS shutdown.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 3, abolished discriminatory national origin quotas established in the 1920s. This landmark legislation increased immigration from Asia and Latin America, allowing over 300,000 immigrants annually and reshaping the U.S. demographic landscape. Current debates on immigration funding echo the ongoing impact of this transformative law.

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Story summary

Senate Republicans, with U.S. President Donald Trump’s support, plan to fast-track immigration enforcement funding amid a prolonged DHS shutdown.
They would use the budget reconciliation process, which does not require Democratic votes.
Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso and Senator Lindsey Graham lead the effort, targeting completion by June 1.
House Republicans remain divided on backing the Senate plan or waiting for progress on reconciliation package amid 58-day DHS shutdown.

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