Democrats need to listen to the GOP when it comes to this.
House Speaker Mike Johnson is criticizing Senate Democrats after another failed attempt to pass funding for the Department of Homeland Security, arguing that the standoff could weaken national security at a time of rising global tensions.
Speaking Thursday evening on Hannity with host Sean Hannity, Johnson said Democrats are prioritizing political battles over ensuring the government agency responsible for border protection and domestic security remains fully operational.
“They’re playing games with the American people and with their safety,” Johnson said during the interview.
DHS Funding Fight Escalates in Washington
The conflict centers around funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees border enforcement, airport security, counter-terrorism operations, and disaster response.
Republicans recently pushed legislation to reopen the department after a shutdown disrupted operations. The measure passed the House but failed to gain enough support in the Senate to overcome a filibuster.
Johnson argued that the delay sends the wrong message at a time when security threats remain a concern.
“Our top responsibility is protecting the American people,” Johnson said. “That should always come first.”
House Vote Shows Deep Partisan Divide
Earlier Thursday, the House voted 221 to 209 in favor of legislation designed to restore DHS funding.
Most Republicans supported the measure, while the vast majority of Democrats voted against it. Only four Democrats crossed party lines to support the bill.
However, the Senate requires 60 votes to move forward, and Democrats blocked the legislation again, leaving negotiations stalled.
Without funding, some DHS personnel must continue working without pay while others are temporarily furloughed.
Johnson said that includes individuals responsible for border enforcement, airport security, and coastal protection.
“These men and women serve on the front lines of American security,” Johnson said. “They deserve support from Washington.”
National Security Concerns Raised
Johnson also pointed to warnings from federal officials about potential security threats, including concerns about possible terrorist activity inside the United States.
While officials have not confirmed any specific imminent threats, Johnson said the situation highlights why DHS funding should be treated as a national priority.
“This is not a political game,” he said. “The safety of the American people is at stake.”
Leadership Change at Homeland Security
The funding fight unfolded the same day that Kristi Noem stepped down from her role leading the department.
Noem, the former governor of South Dakota, had served as DHS Secretary during the second administration of Donald Trump.
Johnson praised her leadership and credited her with helping implement the administration’s immigration and border policies.
“Secretary Noem worked tirelessly to carry out the president’s agenda and strengthen border security,” Johnson said.
Senator Mullin Expected to Take Over DHS Role
Johnson also expressed support for Markwayne Mullin, who is expected to assume leadership of the department.
According to Johnson, Mullin has the experience and determination needed to manage the agency during a challenging period.
“He’s tough, pragmatic, and focused on results,” Johnson said. “He’ll continue the mission of securing our borders and protecting American communities.”
Immigration Debate Remains Central Issue
The debate surrounding DHS funding reflects the broader political divide in Washington over immigration policy.
Republicans have pushed for stronger border enforcement and stricter immigration controls, while Democrats have argued for different approaches to immigration reform.
As negotiations continue in the Senate, the future of DHS funding remains uncertain.
For now, Johnson says lawmakers must move quickly to resolve the dispute.
“This should never be about politics,” he said. “It should be about protecting the American people.”
