Minneapolis Shooting Sparks Government Shutdown Threat Over DHS Funding

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Amidst rising tensions, Congress faces a critical juncture as a potential partial government shutdown looms over DHS funding. The recent shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse, in Minneapolis has ignited a heated debate. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has vowed to oppose the funding package unless the Department of Homeland Security's funding is removed, citing the need for reforms to address ICE's abuses. This stance has garnered support from other Democrats, who argue that federal agents' actions cannot go unpunished.

Why it matters

The funding package, valued at $1.2 trillion, encompasses various government departments, including Defense, Health and Human Services, and more. However, the shooting has sparked a heated debate, with some Democrats threatening to withhold their support unless the DHS funding is separated. The challenge lies in the Senate's ability to split the DHS portion from the rest of the bill, requiring Republican cooperation. With a tight deadline and a snowstorm disrupting Washington, the outcome of this standoff remains uncertain, leaving the nation on the edge of its seat.

The details

The recent shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse, in Minneapolis has ignited a heated debate. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has vowed to oppose the funding package unless the Department of Homeland Security's funding is removed, citing the need for reforms to address ICE's abuses. This stance has garnered support from other Democrats, who argue that federal agents' actions cannot go unpunished.

• The recent shooting of Alex Pretti occurred in Minneapolis.

What they’re saying

What’s next

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