Tennessee Democrats Urge No More ICE Funding as Senate Vote Nears

Party calls on senators to reject any bills that increase spending for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 8:23pm

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The Tennessee Democratic Party is calling on Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty to reject any funding package that increases Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) spending, as the Senate prepares to take up a House-passed appropriations bill this week that expands funding for ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Why it matters

The debate over ICE funding has become a major political flashpoint, with Democrats arguing the agency has become overly aggressive in its immigration enforcement efforts, while Republicans contend the agency is vital for border security. This call from the Tennessee Democrats is part of a broader push by the party to limit ICE's budget and activities.

The details

The Tennessee Democratic Party is urging Senators Blackburn and Hagerty to vote against any legislation that would increase funding for ICE. This comes as the Senate is set to consider a House-passed appropriations bill that would expand funding for both ICE and CBP.

  • The Senate is expected to take up the House-passed appropriations bill this week.

The players

Marsha Blackburn

Republican U.S. Senator from Tennessee.

Bill Hagerty

Republican U.S. Senator from Tennessee.

Tennessee Democratic Party

The state Democratic party organization in Tennessee.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

A federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that enforces immigration laws.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

A federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for border control, customs, trade, and immigration.

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The takeaway

This call from the Tennessee Democrats reflects the ongoing partisan debate over the role and funding of immigration enforcement agencies like ICE. The outcome of the Senate vote could have significant implications for the agency's future activities and budget.