Democratic Senators Push for Changes to ICE Amid Looming Shutdown
Democratic senators are working on a list of demands for changes to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a partial government shutdown looms. They are aiming to pressure Republicans and the White House following recent deaths at the hands of federal agents in Minneapolis. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has not yet revealed the specifics of their demands but has called for immediate changes to ICE and U.S. Border Patrol. The Democrats are considering various demands, including requiring warrants for immigration arrests and mandating federal agents to identify themselves before making arrests.
The potential demands also include ending arrest quotas, sending agents back to the border, and ensuring DHS cooperation with state and local authorities in investigations. Democrats are looking for changes that will unite the caucus and the country, such as ending "roving patrols" that they believe are causing fear among Americans. They emphasize that these changes should be passed by Congress rather than relying on promises from the administration.
Republicans have stated that any changes to the spending bill must be approved by the House to avoid a shutdown. However, with the House not in legislative session this week, it may be challenging to reach a resolution in time. The House passed the remaining funding bills last week as a package, making it difficult to separate the homeland security portion as Democrats are requesting. Despite ongoing discussions, it remains uncertain whether a resolution can be reached before the deadline.
The House Freedom Caucus has expressed support for the president and ICE, stating that the funding for the Department of Homeland Security is non-negotiable. Democrats, on the other hand, are determined to stand their ground on the issue. The possibility of a partial government shutdown starting Saturday looms as negotiations continue. The outcome of the Thursday vote on spending legislation will be crucial in determining the next steps in this ongoing debate.