A shutdown for the Department of Homeland Security appears certain at the end of day Friday as lawmakers in the House and Senate are set to leave Washington for a 10-day break and negotiations with the White House over Democrats’ demands for modern restrictions have stalled.
Immigration Enforcement at the Center of Dispute
Democrats and the White House have been trading offers in recent days. Democrats are seeking curbs on President Donald Trump’s campaign of immigration enforcement following the fatal shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis last month.
Among the Democrats’ requests are better identification for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal law enforcement officers, a new code of conduct for those agencies, and more use of judicial warrants.
The potential shutdown will affect agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection. Depending on the length of the shutdown, some federal workers could miss paychecks and services like airport screening could be impacted.
What Could Happen Next
If the shutdown occurs, it is likely to continue until lawmakers return from their 10-day break and resume negotiations. A possible next step could involve further offers and counteroffers between Democrats and the White House. Still, without a compromise, the shutdown could extend for weeks, potentially impacting federal workers and essential services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the potential shutdown?
Negotiations between Democrats and the White House over new restrictions on immigration enforcement have stalled, leading to the possibility of a Department of Homeland Security shutdown.
Who was affected by the shootings in Minneapolis?
The fatal shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis last month prompted Democrats to seek curbs on President Trump’s immigration enforcement campaign.
Which agencies will be affected by the shutdown?
Agencies under the Department of Homeland Security umbrella, such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection, will be affected by the closures.
As lawmakers prepare to leave Washington, what level of compromise will be necessary to avert a disruption in essential government services?
