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Republicans Are Blocking an End to the DHS Shutdown
The Department of Homeland Security has now been partially shut down for weeks — leaving airport security strained, federal workers unpaid, and critical services disrupted.
And it didn’t have to be this way.
The shutdown is the direct result of Republicans refusing to agree to long-overdue reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — even after repeated abuses, court violations, and tragic incidents involving U.S. citizens.
Democrats have made a reasonable offer: reopen the government now and pair funding with commonsense accountability reforms for ICE and CBP. But Republican leadership is blocking a vote and dragging this crisis out.
Meanwhile, the consequences are real. TSA workers and other DHS staff are missing paychecks, airport delays and disruptions are worsening nationwide, and public trust in federal law enforcement is eroding.
All of this is happening because Republicans refuse to negotiate on reforms that would require transparency and accountability for ICE and CBP agents, ensure compliance with the law and court orders, and protect civil rights while preventing abuses against Americans and immigrants alike.
Even proposals already on the table — like body cameras, limits on aggressive enforcement tactics, and stronger oversight — have been dismissed or delayed by GOP leaders.
This is unacceptable.
Congress has the power to end this shutdown immediately. Republicans just need to stop blocking reform and come to the table.
We can ensure security and protect people’s rights.
Thanks,
Mary
