Border Czar Criticizes Congress for Leaving Without Funding DHS

Tom Homan appears on CBS to discuss the political impasse over Department of Homeland Security funding

Mar. 29, 2026 at 7:38pm

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Border Czar Tom Homan appeared on CBS's Face the Nation to criticize Congress for leaving Washington D.C. for a two-week vacation without funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Homan, who was tasked by the president to oversee border issues, expressed frustration that partisan politics have stalled crucial DHS funding.

Why it matters

The Department of Homeland Security plays a vital role in national security and border protection. Without proper funding, the agency's ability to carry out its mission is compromised, potentially putting public safety at risk. The political impasse highlights the growing divide between Democrats and Republicans on immigration and border issues.

The details

In the interview, Homan accused Democrats of "holding DHS funding hostage" by refusing to approve the necessary budget. He argued that the lack of DHS funding could hamper the agency's efforts to secure the border and address issues like illegal immigration and drug trafficking.

  • Congress left Washington D.C. for a two-week vacation without passing DHS funding.

The players

Tom Homan

The White House's Border Czar, tasked by the president to oversee border issues.

Margaret Brennan

The host of CBS's Face the Nation, where Homan appeared for the interview.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

Congress will need to return from vacation and reach an agreement on DHS funding before the agency runs out of money.

The takeaway

The political impasse over DHS funding highlights the deep partisan divide in Washington and the challenges of governing in a polarized environment. The inability of lawmakers to put aside differences and fund critical government agencies like DHS raises concerns about the functioning of the democratic process.