Frank Rondel
Amid a partial government shutdown that began Saturday, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries confirmed that Democrats will not collaborate with Republicans to fast-track the Senate-passed funding measure, signaling the shutdown may continue longer than initially expected, reports customreceipt.com via ABC News.
Jeffries outlined the Democratic position during an MSNOW interview on Saturday, emphasizing that without full discussion and agreement on reforms demanded by Democrats for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), they cannot support rapid passage. The Senate voted Friday to separate DHS funding after reaching a temporary arrangement with the White House to delay a two-week funding extension. The move allows continued negotiations on Democratic proposals for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including requirements for body cameras to remain on and for agents to avoid using masks.
The House initially planned to consider the Senate measure on Monday under suspension of the rules, which would require a two-thirds majority. Instead, Speaker Mike Johnson must first bring the package to the House Rules Committee before a floor vote, enabling Republicans to attempt passage with a simple majority. The Rules Committee scheduled markup of the Senate-passed funding package for Monday at 4 p.m., the first procedural step before the House can vote. GOP leadership anticipates a potential final vote on Tuesday, though procedural hurdles and Johnson’s slim Republican majority could delay proceedings.
Jeffries stated that Democrats insist on a full debate and negotiation process before any legislation moves forward. “We need a clear path forward, and we haven’t had that discussion with the White House or anyone within the administration,” he said. “We understand these reforms need to be incorporated into law, and that is what we are pursuing.” He stressed that ICE and DHS must operate under the same accountability standards as other law enforcement agencies.
The Senate’s last-minute vote to approve the revised government funding bills passed 71-29, with only five Republicans opposing: Senators Rand Paul, Ted Cruz, Mike Lee, Ron Johnson, and Rick Scott. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham lifted his hold on the package after securing Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s commitment to a future vote on ending sanctuary cities. Graham’s demands also included a vote related to the Arctic Frost provisions, initially removed from the House-approved funding measure. Following the Senate vote, Graham confirmed his support for the package.
The agreement provides funding for most federal agencies through September, while DHS receives a two-week extension at current spending levels to allow further negotiation on the reforms. The partial shutdown escalated following the death of ICU nurse Alex Pretti during a federal law enforcement incident in Minneapolis, intensifying calls for DHS reforms.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer outlined Democratic priorities for DHS reform, including ending roving patrols, enforcing accountability, and ensuring body cameras remain active while masks are removed. Schumer emphasized that Democratic votes will not be guaranteed unless significant legislative changes occur within the two-week negotiation period. “We need Democrats and Republicans in the Senate to pass this,” he said, confirming plans to negotiate directly with Thune rather than President Trump.
Earlier we wrote that US Government Partially Shuts Down After Senate Approves Short-Term DHS Funding