Trump Criticizes GOP Over Stalled DHS Funding Bill

Photos capture senators fleeing DC as Congress fails to reach deal before recess

Mar. 28, 2026 at 7:08am

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Former President Trump harshly criticized Republican lawmakers over the stalled Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill, as Congress left Washington for a recess without reaching an agreement. Photos emerged showing several senators, including Bernie Sanders, departing the nation's capital as the impasse continued.

Why it matters

The inability of Congress to pass a DHS funding bill before the recess highlights the ongoing partisan gridlock in Washington, raising concerns about the government's ability to address critical national security priorities. The optics of lawmakers fleeing the capital as the issue remains unresolved could further erode public trust in the political process.

The details

The DHS funding bill has been stalled in Congress due to disagreements between Republicans and Democrats over issues like border security and immigration policy. Trump, who has remained vocal on political matters since leaving office, sharply criticized GOP lawmakers for failing to resolve the standoff before the recess period.

  • Congress left Washington for a recess on March 24, 2026 without passing a DHS funding bill.
  • The current DHS funding is set to expire on April 15, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who has remained active in criticizing political opponents and the current administration.

Bernie Sanders

A U.S. Senator from Vermont who was photographed departing Washington as Congress failed to reach a deal on DHS funding.

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What they’re saying

“The Republicans in Congress are a disgrace. They had a chance to fund the Department of Homeland Security and they blew it. Weak, ineffective leadership.”

— Donald Trump, Former President

What’s next

Congress will need to return from recess and quickly reach an agreement on DHS funding before the current appropriations expire on April 15th, or risk a partial government shutdown.

The takeaway

The inability of Congress to fulfill its basic duty of funding critical government agencies like the Department of Homeland Security underscores the deep partisan divisions in Washington and the challenges facing the political system. This impasse could have serious implications for national security if left unresolved.