Senate Democrats are pressing for sweeping changes to immigration enforcement after forcing Republicans to split Homeland Security funding from a broader government spending package.
Speaking after the Senate passed five appropriations bills and a short-term funding measure, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said Democrats will not support any DHS bill unless it reins in ICE operations. He said public outrage over recent incidents involving federal agents has reached a breaking point.
Democrats force a change in strategy
Schumer said Democrats blocked a larger funding package because it included DHS money without reforms. He said that move forced Republicans to negotiate and agree to separate DHS funding from the rest of the government budget.
The agreement allows lawmakers to fund about 96% of the federal government while reopening debate over DHS and ICE policies. Schumer called that separation a first step toward “real change.”
He credited unified Democratic opposition for shifting the negotiations. Democrats voted unanimously against advancing the full package without ICE reforms, he said, leaving Republicans without enough votes to move forward.
Three demands tied to ICE funding
Schumer laid out three conditions Democrats say must be met before they support DHS funding.
They include ending roving ICE patrols, enforcing accountability, and requiring agents to show clear identification and wear body cameras. Schumer framed the proposal as “masks off, body cameras on,” arguing that no law enforcement agency should operate without visible identification.
He warned Republicans not to expect Democratic votes without strong changes. Schumer said the next phase involves drafting legislation that curbs ICE’s authority and addresses what he called violence tied to current enforcement tactics.
Negotiations ahead, pressure remains
Schumer said he plans to negotiate directly with Senate Republican Leader John Thune, noting that 60 votes will be needed to pass a DHS bill. He said Democrats are ready with proposals they believe reflect what the public wants.
Asked about Republican criticism that Democrats are unfairly targeting ICE agents, Schumer said lawmakers should listen to public sentiment. He also rejected concerns that removing masks could endanger agents, arguing that accountability and clear identification are essential.
Gillibrand highlights New York funding wins
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said separating DHS from the broader funding package helped avoid a prolonged government shutdown and opened the door for bipartisan talks on ICE reforms.
She highlighted billions of dollars in funding for New York, including full funding for the World Trade Center Health Program, hospital support, affordable housing, transportation, education, and child care. Gillibrand said ICE’s current tactics undermine public trust and must change.
She urged House Republicans to return to Washington to finalize the funding package and move forward with DHS reforms, warning against using essential programs as leverage in political fights.
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