Lawmakers Clash Over Homeland Security Funding Amid Partial Government Shutdown

Democrats demand changes to immigration enforcement, Republicans refuse to back down

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A partial government shutdown has begun after congressional Democrats and the White House failed to reach a deal on legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security through September. Democrats are demanding changes to how immigration operations are conducted, including requiring federal agents to clearly identify themselves and wear body cameras, while the Trump administration is unwilling to agree to these proposals. Both sides appear dug into their positions, with no signs of compromise as the impasse affects several federal agencies.

Why it matters

The ongoing dispute over immigration enforcement and oversight highlights the deep partisan divide in Washington, with the Trump administration doubling down on its hardline immigration policies and Democrats pushing for more accountability and transparency. The shutdown could have significant impacts on federal agencies and employees, as well as the broader public, if it drags on.

The details

The partial government shutdown began on Saturday after Democrats and the White House failed to reach a deal on Homeland Security funding. Democrats are demanding changes to how immigration operations are conducted, including requiring federal agents to clearly identify themselves, remove masks during operations, and wear body cameras. They also want to mandate judicial warrants for arrests on private property. However, the Trump administration is unwilling to agree to these proposals, with White House border advisor Tom Homan arguing that federal officers need to protect themselves. Republicans have also pushed back on the Democrats' demands, with Sen. Markwayne Mullin saying he opposes exposing the faces of immigration officers due to concerns about doxing and harassment.

  • The partial government shutdown began on Saturday, February 15, 2026.
  • Congress is on recess until February 23, 2026.

The players

Tom Homan

White House border advisor who argued that federal immigration officers need to protect themselves and opposed Democrats' demands.

Chuck Schumer

Senate Minority Leader who said Democrats are only asking federal agents to abide by rules followed by law enforcement agencies around the country.

Markwayne Mullin

Republican Senator from Oklahoma who said he could support equipping immigration officers with body cameras and bolstering training, but opposed demands to remove masks and clearly identify themselves.

Katie Britt

Republican Senator from Alabama and Trump ally who pushed for a two-week extension of Homeland Security funding while negotiations continued.

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What they’re saying

“I don't like the masks, either. These men and women have to protect themselves.”

— Tom Homan, White House border advisor (CBS' 'Face the Nation')

“And the question that Americans are asking is, 'Why aren't Republicans going along with these commonsense proposals?' They're not crazy. They're not way out. They're what every police department in America does.”

— Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader (CNN's 'State of the Union')

“What are you going to do, expose their faces so you can intimidate their families? What we want is ICE to be able to do their job. And we would love for local law enforcement and for states to cooperate with us.”

— Markwayne Mullin, Republican Senator (CNN's 'State of the Union')

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.