Congressman Calls for DHS Reforms After Shutdown

Foster demands accountability and oversight for agency's 'aggressive operations'

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) released a statement criticizing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after the agency shut down due to lapsed funding. Foster called for commonsense reforms including body cameras for ICE agents, judicial warrants for enforcement actions, and independent investigations into misconduct, stating he will vote against DHS funding until these measures are implemented.

Why it matters

The DHS shutdown and Foster's calls for reform highlight ongoing tensions over the agency's aggressive tactics and lack of oversight, especially in the wake of controversial incidents involving the use of force against U.S. citizens.

The details

In his statement, Foster condemned the actions of the 'Trump and Kristi Noem's DHS', citing 'aggressive operations across Illinois' and the 'killing of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis'. He called for a series of reforms, including body cameras for ICE agents, judicial warrants for enforcement actions, strict restraints on the use of force, stronger transparency requirements, and independent investigations into misconduct.

  • The DHS funding lapsed and the agency shut down on February 17, 2026.

The players

Bill Foster

A Democratic congressman representing Illinois' 11th district who is calling for reforms and accountability within the Department of Homeland Security.

Donald Trump

The former president whose administration is criticized by Foster for the DHS's 'aggressive operations'.

Kristi Noem

The current governor of South Dakota whose leadership of the DHS is also criticized by Foster.

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What they’re saying

“'(Donald) Trump and Kristi Noem's DHS are out of control. From aggressive operations across Illinois to the killing of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis, the path forward is clear: DHS must be held accountable, and Congress must step in to enact meaningful changes.'”

— Bill Foster, Congressman (Office of congressman Bill Foster)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow DHS funding to be restored.

The takeaway

This DHS shutdown underscores the growing calls for greater oversight and accountability within the agency, as critics argue its aggressive tactics and lack of transparency have eroded public trust and endangered civil liberties.