DHS shutdown live updates as fate of Senate funding deal looks uncertain

March 25, 2026

TL;DR

Democrats are demanding reforms to ICE before agreeing to fund DHS, rejecting a GOP proposal that excludes funding for ICE's deportation arm.
The 40-day partial government shutdown is causing chaos at airports, with TSA workers not being paid, leading to increased wait times and worker shortages.
Republicans have proposed funding 94% of DHS, withholding $5.5 billion for ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations, while Democrats plan to send a counteroffer with reforms.
Some Republicans, like Rep. Andy Harris, oppose splitting DHS funding, calling it an unusual and bad precedent.
TSA has lost over 480 officers during the shutdown, with callout rates increasing significantly and leading to historically long wait times.
Lawmakers face pressure to resolve the shutdown before a scheduled two-week recess, with the possibility of canceling the recess if no deal is reached.
President Trump has expressed skepticism about any deal Democrats might agree to, indicating he would likely be dissatisfied.
Some Republicans are considering using budget reconciliation to pass ICE funding and elements of the SAVE America Act, though its compliance with budget rules is questioned.

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