DHS Shutdown Live Updates as Senate GOP Sends "Last and Final" Offer to Democrats

March 26, 2026

TL;DR

Republicans have presented their "last and final" offer to Democrats to end the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown.
Democrats previously submitted a proposal including reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which Republicans rejected.
Senate votes on advancing DHS funding and a voter ID amendment are scheduled, with the possibility of delaying the upcoming two-week recess.
President Trump warned of "very drastic measures" if the shutdown persists.
House Democrats are attempting to force a vote on legislation to fund DHS minus ICE and CBP, but lack sufficient signatures for a discharge petition.
Senator Ron Johnson has renewed calls to end the Senate filibuster, citing dysfunction in the funding process.
President Trump also floated ending the filibuster to reopen DHS and urged Republicans to pass an election bill.
The Senate has voted unsuccessfully multiple times to advance DHS funding, with Republicans hoping to gain more support with their revised offer that strips funding for ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations division.
Democrats are seeking reforms such as increased training standards and identification for immigration officers, while Republicans argue this is not feasible if Democrats refuse to fund ICE.
Senator John Thune suggested there might be room for negotiation if Democrats present more realistic proposals and did not rule out a short-term funding measure.

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