Democrats Send Counteroffer to White House on DHS Funding as Shutdown Continues

Democrats demand reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement as partial government shutdown drags on.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 4:23pm

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As the partial government shutdown continues, Democrats have sent their counteroffer to Republicans and the White House, outlining their demands to fund the Department of Homeland Security and reform the embattled agency. The specifics of the proposal remain unclear, but Democrats are seeking a range of new restrictions on immigration enforcement, including a mandate for body cameras, judicial warrants before agents can enter private property, and a ban on ICE agents wearing face masks.

Why it matters

The shutdown is affecting key DHS agencies like the TSA, FEMA, and the U.S. Coast Guard, as Democrats push for reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following several high-profile incidents involving the agency. The negotiations over DHS funding and ICE reforms have become a key sticking point in the ongoing government shutdown.

The details

Democrats have asked for a range of new restrictions on immigration enforcement, including a mandate for body cameras, judicial warrants before agents can enter private property, and a ban on ICE agents wearing face masks. They also want stricter use-of-force policy and new training standards for agents. Republicans have objected to many of these demands, with the exception of some openness to body cameras. ICE is continuing operations due to a $75 billion infusion provided in Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill' that was passed by Congress last summer.

  • The partial government shutdown is now in its fourth day.
  • Lawmakers have been told to prepare to return to Washington on 48-hours notice if a deal comes together.

The players

Chuck Schumer

Senate Minority Leader from New York.

Donald Trump

President of the United States.

Hakeem Jeffries

House Minority Leader.

Tom Homan

White House 'border czar' who last week announced an end to the Minneapolis surge.

Alex Pretti

An ICU nurse who was fatally shot by federal agents in Minneapolis on Jan. 24.

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What they’re saying

“I will, but you know, we have to protect our law enforcement. They've done a great job.”

— Donald Trump (Air Force One)

“These are common-sense proposals. ICE is rogue, out of control.”

— Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader (CNN)

“Well, we're willing to have a good-faith conversation about everything, but, fundamentally, we need change that is dramatic, that is bold, that is meaningful and that is transformational.”

— Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader (Face the Nation on CBS)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.