Senate Democrats Refuse Compromise, Risking Partial Shutdown

Schumer and Democrats stand firm on Homeland Security demands as negotiations stall with Republicans

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Senate Democrats, led by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have announced they will reject a short-term funding extension for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), risking a partial government shutdown. The standoff comes as both parties continue negotiations on a compromise bill, but Democrats say the Republican counterproposal is unacceptable.

Why it matters

This political impasse highlights the deep partisan divisions over immigration policy and the funding of federal agencies like ICE. A partial shutdown of the DHS could disrupt critical security operations and services, raising concerns about public safety and national security.

The details

Senate Democrats unveiled a 10-point proposal for DHS funding over the weekend, but negotiations with Republicans and the White House have hit an impasse. Democrats are demanding measures to rein in ICE, such as requiring judicial warrants and agent identification, which the GOP sees as unacceptable. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has set up another vote on the original DHS funding bill, which could be modified into a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the agency open, but it's unclear if Democrats will support it.

  • The funding deadline for the DHS is this Friday, February 11, 2026 at midnight.
  • Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced Democrats' refusal to support a CR on February 8, 2026.

The players

Chuck Schumer

The Senate Minority Leader, a Democrat from New York, who has announced that his party will reject a short-term funding extension for the Department of Homeland Security.

John Thune

The Senate Majority Leader, a Republican from South Dakota, who has set up another vote on the original DHS funding bill that could be modified into a continuing resolution.

Donald Trump

The former President, whose administration presented a counterproposal to the Democrats' 10-point plan, which Democrats have deemed unacceptable.

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What they’re saying

“We're 3 days away from a DHS shutdown, and Republicans have not gotten serious about negotiating a solution that reins in [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] and stops the violence. Democrats will not support a CR to extend the status quo.”

— Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader (X)

“There's going to be the legislative text coming over from the White House today. But I think it's, like I said, the White House is operating in good faith.”

— John Thune, Senate Majority Leader (Reporters)

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.