The dispute between Democrats and Republicans over funding for the criticized US Department of Homeland Security is entering a new week.
March 30, 2026, 06:52March 30, 2026, 06:52
Although the Senate and House of Representatives in Congress voted on different financing proposals from the House last week, they were unable to reach a common denominator before the weekend. The standstill of government business in the ministry – practically a mini-shutdown – has now lasted for the 45th day this Monday.
Markwayne Mullin is the new head of the US Department of Homeland Security.Image: keystone
ICE raids were the trigger
The background for the lack of funding is a dispute between Democrats and Republicans in the US Parliament over the sometimes brutal actions against migrants by the immigration agency ICE, which is part of the ministry. The ICE raids are part of US President Donald Trump’s aggressive deportation policy.
There was massive criticism of masked and martial federal officials who report to the Department of Homeland Security. In the state of Minnesota, two US citizens were shot dead by federal officers during operations in the city of Minneapolis in January.
The Democrats in the Senate then refused to approve the department’s budget and called for reforms in the deployment of federal security forces. Among other things, they demand a ban on masking and cameras on the body, so-called body cameras.
Long waiting times at airports
The dispute led to employees responsible for security at airports no longer receiving their salaries – they also report to the Department of Homeland Security. Many then called in sick. This led to long waiting times and chaos at security checks in US airports, and travelers missed their flights. (sda/dpa)