Democrats Issue New Demands To Trump
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday that Democrats are prepared to block funding for the Department of Homeland Security unless Republicans agree to major changes to immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump — a move that could bring Washington closer to a government shutdown.
Schumer outlined a list of conditions Democrats say must be met before they will support a Homeland Security funding bill. Without those changes, he warned, Democrats will withhold their votes, potentially delaying funding for border security and federal immigration enforcement.
Democrats Demand Limits on ICE Enforcement Operations
According to Schumer, the first demand would restrict how Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducts enforcement operations. Democrats are calling for an end to what they describe as roaming ICE patrols and are seeking tighter controls on how immigration warrants are used.
Democrats argue these changes are necessary to protect civil liberties. Republicans counter that such restrictions could weaken immigration enforcement at a time of ongoing border challenges.
Calls for New Federal Use-of-Force Standards
Schumer’s second proposal would require a universal code of conduct governing the use of force by federal law enforcement officers. The Democratic leader said such a standard would increase accountability across federal agencies.
Critics have warned that imposing additional federal rules could limit officers’ ability to respond quickly in dangerous situations and complicate law enforcement operations.
Mask Ban and Body Camera Requirements for Federal Agents
The third demand would prohibit federal agents from wearing face coverings during enforcement actions. Democrats also want to require body cameras and visible identification for all federal officers involved in immigration enforcement.
Schumer accused the Trump administration, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and senior White House adviser Stephen Miller, of allowing ICE to operate without sufficient oversight.
Funding Standoff Raises Government Shutdown Risk
Following a closed-door caucus meeting Wednesday, Schumer said Senate Democrats are unified behind the demands and will block a six-bill government funding package unless the Homeland Security measure is separated from the rest.
The broader funding package includes budgets for the Departments of Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Transportation, State, and several other federal agencies.
Schumer said Democrats are willing to advance those bills quickly while negotiating separately over Homeland Security funding and immigration policy changes.
High-Stakes Fight Over Border Security and Law Enforcement
With a funding deadline approaching, the standoff sets the stage for another high-profile fight over immigration enforcement, border security, and federal law enforcement authority during President Trump’s second term.
Whether lawmakers reach an agreement in time could determine whether parts of the federal government face a partial shutdown in the days ahead.
