House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) has warned Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) that Democratic votes should not be expected to resolve the ongoing partial government shutdown. The warning came during a Saturday phone call between the two leaders, according to Republican and Democratic leadership sources.
Standoff Over DHS Funding
The core of the disagreement centers on a two-week stopgap funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats are hesitant to support the measure because it lacks provisions for reforms to ICE and Customs and Border Protection. This reluctance follows a Friday night Senate vote where 23 Democrats supported the bill, facing immediate criticism from progressive groups who characterized the vote as funding ICE.
Congressional Progressive Caucus chair Greg Casar (D-Texas) stated on X, formerly known as Twitter, “My Progressive Caucus colleagues and I have been clear: not another cent to ICE until we stop the chaos and the lawlessness.” He added that he would vote against the bill if it reached the House.
Internal Divisions and Potential Outcomes
Jeffries indicated to reporters on Thursday that he has not spoken with the White House regarding the matter, stating, “The Trump administration understands that the only group of people that speak for House Democrats are House Democrats.” House Democrats are scheduled to hold a virtual caucus call Sunday evening to discuss their strategy.
One House Democrat, speaking anonymously, suggested that Republicans may need to pass a “rule” to overcome internal opposition, a process that could further extend the shutdown. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) and other conservatives are also seeking to attach the SAVE Act – requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to vote – to the funding package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Democrats hesitant to support the DHS funding bill?
Democrats are hesitant because the bill lacks reform measures for ICE and Customs and Border Protection, a key demand for many within the party.
What is the significance of the call between Jeffries and Johnson?
The call signaled that Democrats are unlikely to provide the votes needed to pass the bill in a bipartisan manner, potentially forcing Republicans to rely solely on their own members.
What could happen if Republicans fail to pass the funding bill?
If Republicans are unable to secure enough votes, the partial government shutdown could be extended.
Given the current divisions, what impact will this standoff have on the broader budget negotiations and the functioning of government?
