Partial government shutdown begins after DHS funding lapses amid immigration dispute

The reality of another partial government shutdown is setting in after the Department of Homeland Security ran out of funding over the weekend.

(NBC)- The reality of another partial government shutdown is setting in after the Department of Homeland Security ran out of funding over the weekend, with lawmakers failing to reach a deal on immigration enforcement reforms.

Negotiations broke down as Democrats pushed for sweeping changes to federal immigration operations, while Republicans and the White House defended current enforcement policies.

“We need change that is dramatic, that is bold, that is meaningful,” said Hakeem Jeffries, the House Minority Leader.

President Donald Trump responded, saying, “We have to protect law enforcement.”

While talks continue, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection remain funded under what the president previously referred to as the “Big Beautiful Bill.”

However, thousands of federal employees at agencies including Federal Emergency Management Agency, the United States Coast Guard, and the Transportation Security Administration are once again working without pay.

“People’s lives and livelihoods are being played with here,” said Andrew Cardoso, a union leader representing TSA employees.

Cardoso says many TSA agents are still recovering financially from the last shutdown in the fall, which disrupted air travel nationwide. He warns another prolonged funding lapse could have serious consequences.

Democrats argue they must hold firm following the recent shooting deaths of two American citizens by federal officers. They are demanding reforms that include a uniform code of conduct for ICE and Border Patrol agents, requiring judicial warrants before immigration arrests, and prohibiting officers from wearing masks during enforcement operations.

Republicans have pushed back strongly. Congress is currently out of session until next week but could return early for a vote if negotiators reach an agreement.

For now, federal workers and travelers alike are left waiting as lawmakers search for common ground.