Senate Republicans Face Tough Choices to Avoid Government Shutdown
The Senate is set to vote on six funding bills that could prevent a partial government shutdown. These bills cover essential agencies like the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Treasury, and Defense. However, a recent incident where a U.S. citizen was killed by federal immigration agents has complicated things.
Democrats Push for Separate DHS Funding
Democrats are pushing to separate the DHS funding from the rest of the package. They want changes to how the agency operates, but Republicans have been hesitant. Some Senate Republicans are now considering this idea, seeing it as a way to avoid a shutdown.
Republicans Weigh Their Options
Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana supports this approach. He thinks all bills will pass except DHS, and then they can discuss DHS funding later. Other Republicans, like Senator John Hoeven from North Dakota, are open to the idea if Democrats block the current package.
Senate Majority Leader Prefers Intact Package
Senate Majority Leader John Thune from South Dakota prefers keeping the package intact. He suggests that if Democrats have specific demands, they should be addressed within the current package. Democrats, however, are not convinced. They want concrete changes in the DHS bill, not just promises.
Democrats Demand Changes to DHS Operations
Senator Angus King from Maine, who often votes differently from his Democratic colleagues, is firm on this issue. He won't vote for the DHS budget unless it includes new rules for federal immigration enforcement. These rules include:
- Requirements for warrants
- Bans on masks
- Body cameras
- A code of conduct for federal agents
Potential Delays and Shutdown Risks
Republicans plan to vote on all six bills as scheduled. However, if that fails, they might need to separate the DHS bill. This could delay things further, as any senator could object to the change. A shutdown at DHS would also impact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is crucial during the current cold weather.
House Approval Needed
Any changes made by the Senate would need to be approved by the House again. The House is currently on recess and won't return until after the shutdown deadline. Even if DHS is not funded, it can still operate its immigration enforcement due to previous funding.
