Live updates: DHS shutdown hits 10th day as Congress returns to DC
The Hill
by The Hill StaffFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lawmakers are returning to Capitol Hill as the partial government shutdown enters its 10th day, with negotiations over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at a standstill. The ongoing impasse has left key agencies, including Customs and Border Protection, operating without a budget or full staff. As Congress works to reach an agreement, the pressure is mounting ahead of Tuesday’s State of the Union address, which aims to unify the nation after weeks of political gridlock.
Democrats have demanded that DHS funding be tied to a pause in border wall construction, while Republicans insist on maintaining President Trump’s $5.7 billion allocation for the border wall. This divide has stalled negotiations despite repeated calls from both parties to resolve the issue. Federal employees furloughed or working without pay remain at the heart of the crisis, with concerns growing about the impact on national security and public safety.
The shutdown’s duration—already one of the longest in U.S. history—has raised questions about its broader implications. While some lawmakers express optimism about a potential breakthrough, others warn that political optics could overshadow practical solutions. The situation highlights the challenges of bipartisanship in a highly polarized environment, with midterm elections adding further urgency to resolve the standoff.
This impasse not only underscores the complexities of budget negotiations but also reflects deeper divides over immigration policy and border security. As lawmakers work against the clock, the stakes are high for both political parties and the American people, who are closely watching whether Congress can rise above its differences to address critical issues.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/23/2026