Budget standoff over immigration shuts down US Department of Homeland Security
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 14, 2026
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A partial government shutdown of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) occurred on Saturday due to a budget standoff between Democrats and Republicans over immigration enforcement policies. The dispute centers around funding for DHS, particularly Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), following two fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis. Democrats have vowed to withhold funding until significant reforms are implemented, including curtailed patrols, restrictions on ICE operations, and requirements for judicial warrants before entering private property.
The shutdown has impacted thousands of government workers, forcing them either to be furloughed or work without pay. While DHS as a whole is partially shut down, ICE remains operational due to last year's funding. Other agencies, such as FEMA and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), are likely to face disruptions, including longer wait times at airports and potential flight cancellations.
Democrats argue that dramatic changes are needed to address concerns over ICE's actions, which have sparked widespread protests and criticism. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has criticized Republicans for refusing to hold ICE accountable, while White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt blamed Democrats for causing the shutdown for political reasons. Negotiations remain stalled, with Senate rules requiring 60 votes to pass a budget bill, meaning some concessions from Democrats are likely necessary.
The shutdown marks the third under President Trump's second term and comes after recent partial closures over similar disputes. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has announced that federal agents in Minneapolis will now wear body cameras, though this policy is expected to expand nationwide. Senators could be called back to Washington if negotiations progress quickly, but for now, talks between the White House
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/14/2026