The Senate voted to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security, moving to end the chaos that has gripped U.S. airports following a 40-day partial government shutdown.
The legislation funds most DHS operations but explicitly excludes Immigration and Customs Enforcement, leaving the agency's funding status unresolved.
What the Right Is Saying
Conservative Republicans have defended the exclusion of ICE funding, arguing that the agency must be reformed before receiving additional appropriations. Some Republican lawmakers have said DHS funding should prioritize core border security functions over what they characterize as administrative priorities.
What the Left Is Saying
Progressive Democrats have called for full funding of all federal agencies, including ICE, arguing that a complete government reopening is necessary to protect travelers and workers. Some Democratic lawmakers have emphasized that the partial shutdown created unnecessary hardship for millions of Americans traveling through airports.
What the Numbers Show
The 40-day partial government shutdown represents one of the longest federal funding gaps in recent history. Airports across the country experienced significant delays and operational disruptions during the period, affecting millions of travelers.
The Bottom Line
The Senate vote to fund most of DHS marks a significant step toward normalizing airport operations, though the exclusion of ICE leaves unresolved questions about immigration enforcement funding. Congress will need to address ICE appropriations in separate negotiations to achieve a full government reopening.