A. Rahman
The House of Representatives voted late Tuesday to approve a short-term funding measure that ends the partial government shutdown entering its fourth day, sending the bill to President Trump’s desk for signature.
The legislation provides funding for the Department of Homeland Security through mid-February while keeping other agencies open under current levels, resolving a deadlock sparked by Democratic demands for reforms to immigration enforcement practices. The vote tallied 218-212, with a handful of moderate Republicans joining most Democrats in support, while hardline conservatives opposed the lack of stronger border security provisions.
Speaker Mike Johnson hailed the outcome as a pragmatic step, stating on the floor that “this keeps the government running while we negotiate lasting solutions on immigration and spending.” He acknowledged internal party friction but emphasized avoiding prolonged disruption to essential services like the Pentagon and Transportation Department.
Democratic leaders expressed mixed reactions. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called it “a temporary bandage on a deeper wound,” criticizing the absence of mandatory body camera requirements for all federal agents and limits on enforcement actions. However, many Democrats backed the bill to restore paychecks for furloughed workers and prevent further economic fallout.
The shutdown began last Friday when funding lapsed amid disputes over DHS operations, particularly heightened immigration raids in cities like Minneapolis that drew protests and allegations of excessive force. Agencies including Defense, State, and Veterans Affairs faced furloughs or unpaid work, though essential functions continued.
President Trump is expected to sign the measure promptly, with White House officials indicating approval for the brief extension to allow more talks. Attention now shifts to broader fiscal negotiations ahead of the new deadline, as lawmakers grapple with Trump’s priorities on border wall funding and agency restructuring.
Economists warned that even short disruptions cost millions in lost productivity, underscoring urgency in the vote. Unions representing affected federal employees welcomed the resolution but vowed to push for permanent protections in upcoming bills.
Quick Summary:
The House passed a two-week DHS funding extension 218-212, ending the partial government shutdown triggered by immigration policy clashes. Bipartisan support averted longer chaos, with full-year appropriations talks set to resume amid ongoing partisan tensions
