Trump says he’s talking to Democrats about DHS: ‘We’ll see what happens’
The Hill
by Al WeaverFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump has indicated that discussions are progressing with Senate Democrats regarding a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which faces a looming shutdown at midnight. The talks come after the Senate left Washington without reaching an agreement, leaving DHS vulnerable to closure. Trump expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations, stating, “We’ll see what happens,” as he departed the White House for a trip to North Carolina.
The situation is significant because a DHS shutdown would have far-reaching consequences, including potential disruptions to border security, visa processing, and other critical homeland security functions. This isn’t the first time Trump has faced such a standoff with Democrats over DHS funding. In recent years, similar disputes have led to partial government closures, highlighting the deep partisan divisions on issues like immigration and border security.
Why does this matter? The funding deal is a key political battle that underscores the ongoing tensions between Trump and Democratic lawmakers. With Trump’s re-election campaign in full swing, the outcome of these negotiations could shape his political narrative and influence voter perceptions. Additionally, the ability to reach a bipartisan agreement on such a critical issue may test the administration’s commitment to governance and compromise.
In this context, Trump’s decision to travel to North Carolina—a state with significant Republican support—may also be seen as an effort to rally conservative voters behind him, emphasizing his focus on national security while maintaining political momentum. The outcome of these talks will not only impact DHS operations but could also set a precedent for future negotiations and demonstrate the feasibility of bipartisan cooperation in a highly polarized political environment.
Verticals
politicsnews
Originally published on The Hill on 2/13/2026