Republicans Seek Resolution to DHS Funding Crisis Amid Shutdown

Wed Apr 01 2026 22:01:39 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune propose a dual-track approach to fund the Department of Homeland Security, aiming to resolve a prolonged government shutdown.

In a joint announcement, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune outline a strategy to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after a significant government shutdown. Their proposal includes two approaches: a regular appropriations process and a reconciliation bill that may necessitate Republican-only support. With tensions still simmering between parties, the collaboration indicates a concerted effort to meet a funding deadline. President Trump's involvement further complicates the situation, as he insists on urgency for his preferred legislative path.

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune announced Wednesday a strategy to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) while addressing the ongoing record government shutdown.

The pair expressed optimism in a joint statement that “over the next few days,” Republican lawmakers in both the House and Senate would adhere to President Trump’s directive to secure complete funding for DHS. Their plan includes two approaches: one would follow the usual appropriations process, while the other involves a reconciliation bill that Republicans may need to pass independently later this year.

Despite the proposed strategies, the outcomes remain uncertain, and the plan is expected to face significant obstacles from both Democrats and some factions within the GOP.

Johnson (R-La.) and Thune (R-S.D.) stated, “We appreciate and share the President’s determination to effectively end the Democrat-led DHS shutdown.”

Last week, the Senate faced deadlock after passing a measure excluding funding for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Border Patrol, sidelining Democratic calls for limits on these agencies.

However, the House Republicans succeeded in passing a bill that proposed 60 days of complete funding for DHS. Consequently, the shutdown persists, even as lawmakers embark on a two-week recess in their home states and congressional districts. The plan will require Senate Democrats’ cooperation, although their willingness remains unclear at this moment.

This development underscores a fragile rapport between Johnson and Thune, as their working relationship had recently suffered a setback when Johnson dismissed Thune’s earlier proposal.

In a social media post, Trump emphasized the need for immediate action regarding the funding issue, insisting that Republicans pursue a route requiring no Democratic support. He expressed a desire to have the legislation ready on his desk by June 1.

Trump stated, “We are going to work swiftly and with focus to replenish funding for our Border and ICE Agents, and the Radical Left Democrats won’t be able to stop us.”