Republicans Push for Funding to End Longest Government Shutdown

Tue Apr 21 2026 22:51:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Senate Republicans are mobilizing to reopen the Department of Homeland Security amidst the longest partial government shutdown, aiming to secure funding for immigration enforcement agencies before deadlines loom.

As legislative negotiations continue, Senate Republicans are attempting to push through a $70 billion resolution designed to fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol agencies for three years. This move comes in response to stalled negotiations and pressure from within the GOP to address funding issues amid an ongoing government shutdown. Democrats criticize the lack of reforms in immigration enforcement promised by the Republicans.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans are moving this week to try and reopen the Department of Homeland Security and end the longest partial government shutdown in history.

The first votes could come as soon as Tuesday as GOP leaders attempt a new workaround to unlock the funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol. Democrats have blocked money for those agencies since mid-February, demanding policy changes following fatal incidents involving federal agents.

The Republican strategy involves utilizing budget reconciliation, allowing them to bypass filibuster regulations, which necessitate a higher threshold of votes due to their slim Senate majority.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized this method as a “partisan sideshow,” emphasizing the need for reform in the immigration enforcement sector. However, GOP leaders assert that proactive measures are necessary as negotiations have stalled.

Senators are preparing amendments to the proposed funding bill, aiming to include various economic initiatives alongside immigration funding. The urgency is palpable, as both parties recognize the pressing nature of the funding issues with a prolonged government shutdown at stake.