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Senate Passes $70B ICE, Border Patrol Funding 50-48

4/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Senate Republicans approved a $70 billion ICE and Border Patrol budget resolution 50-48, after Senator John Kennedy blocked the vote and then withdrew his objection.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the measure will keep borders secure and stop Democrats from defunding them.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said the House will first consider the reconciliation bill to fund ICE and Border Patrol, though timetable is unclear.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 3, abolished national origin quotas that had restricted immigration since the 1920s. This landmark legislation significantly increased immigration from Asia and Latin America, contributing to a demographic shift in the U.S. Today’s $70 billion budget resolution for ICE and Border Patrol reflects ongoing debates rooted in this historical context.

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Story summary

Senate Republicans approved a $70 billion ICE and Border Patrol budget resolution 50-48, after Senator John Kennedy blocked the vote and then withdrew his objection.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the measure will keep borders secure and stop Democrats from defunding them.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said the House will first consider the reconciliation bill to fund ICE and Border Patrol, though timetable is unclear.

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