Democrats Threaten Government Shutdown Over ICE Reform Demands
U.S. Senate Democrats have warned that they may block a key government funding bill on Thursday unless Republicans and the White House agree to impose new restrictions on immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump’s administration. Failure to reach a compromise could push the federal government closer to a partial shutdown.
The bill in question seeks to secure funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and several other federal agencies. Democrats say they are prepared to withhold their support if their demands related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) practices are not addressed.
The warning comes amid nationwide outrage following the deaths of two protesters in Minneapolis during an operation involving federal agents. In response, Senate Democrats outlined a set of conditions ahead of a crucial vote scheduled for Thursday morning.
Among their demands are requirements that law enforcement officers clearly identify themselves by removing face coverings and that arrests be carried out only with proper warrants. Democrats argue these measures are necessary to ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of civil liberties.
Party leaders said that without these reforms, they are willing to block the broad spending package. If the bill fails to pass, Republicans would fall short of the votes needed to advance it, potentially triggering a partial government shutdown as early as Friday at midnight.
Negotiations between Democratic lawmakers, Republican leaders, and the White House are ongoing, but no agreement had been reached as of the latest update.
