Fetterman Warns of Looming DHS Shutdown as ICE Talks Stall

Pennsylvania senator says Democrats' demands for ICE reform are unlikely to be fully met.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) warned on Sunday that he "absolutely" expects the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to shut down this Friday as negotiations over immigration enforcement have stalled between Democrats and Republicans. Fetterman, a member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, said Democrats' list of 10 policy changes they want for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are unlikely to be fully met, raising concerns about the impact a DHS shutdown could have on air travel and emergency response nationwide.

Why it matters

A lapse in DHS funding could significantly disrupt critical government functions like airport security and emergency management, impacting millions of Americans. The partisan standoff over ICE reform highlights the ongoing political tensions around immigration policy and enforcement.

The details

Democrats are demanding a series of changes to ICE operations, including banning agents from wearing masks and requiring warrants to enter homes. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) said Democrats won't accept a deal without their full list of ICE reforms. However, Fetterman acknowledged Democrats are unlikely to "get all 10" of their demands, which Republicans have dismissed as a "Christmas wish list." Fetterman generally opposes government shutdowns but expressed concern about federal workers, including TSA agents, not being paid during a funding lapse.

  • Funding for the Department of Homeland Security is scheduled to lapse on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The players

John Fetterman

A Democratic U.S. senator from Pennsylvania and member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee.

Hakeem Jeffries

The Democratic House Minority Leader from New York.

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What they’re saying

“I absolutely would expect that it's going to shut down.”

— John Fetterman, U.S. Senator (Fox News)

“We know that ICE is completely and totally out of control. They've gone way too far, and the American people want them reined in.”

— Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader (CNN)

What’s next

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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.