WASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is bracing for a potential operational lapse as negotiations on Capitol Hill reached a stalemate this week. With funding set to expire in just eight days, on February 14, 2026, lawmakers from both parties are warning that a DHS-specific shutdown is increasingly likely.
Stalemate Over ICE and Border Reforms
The current crisis follows a brief four-day partial government shutdown that ended earlier this week. While President Trump signed a bill to restore funding to most federal agencies, the Department of Homeland Security was only granted a temporary extension. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) indicated on Thursday, February 05, 2026, that serious negotiations to bridge the gap have yet to begin.
The primary sticking point remains a list of demands from Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries. Democrats have stated they will not support a long-term DHS spending bill without “dramatic changes” to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Republicans have dismissed these demands as “unrealistic,” leading to the current legislative deadlock.
Impact on the DHS Workforce and National Security
If a shutdown occurs, the impact on national security operations would be immediate but varied. Because DHS performs “essential” functions, the majority of its workforce would be required to stay on the job without immediate pay. According to DHS contingency plans:
- Essential Personnel: Approximately 72% of the DHS workforce, including over 19,000 U.S. Border Patrol agents and thousands of TSA officers, would work without pay until a budget is passed.
- Travel Disruptions: Experts warn that a prolonged shutdown could lead to delays at airports and border crossings as staffing levels are strained.
- Immigration Services: While many USCIS functions are fee-funded and may continue, non-detained immigration courts and the processing of PERM applications for employers could face significant suspensions.
Historical Context of the Department
The Department of Homeland Security was established in the wake of the September 11 attacks, following the Homeland Security Act of 2002. It officially began operations on March 1, 2003, consolidating 22 different federal agencies into a single Cabinet-level department. This current funding fight represents one of the most significant challenges to the agency’s unified operations since its inception over two decades ago.
What Happens Next?
Lawmakers have until next Friday to reach an agreement or pass another stopgap measure. Without a breakthrough between the White House and Democratic leadership regarding ICE enforcement levels and border policy, the agency responsible for the nation’s domestic safety will enter a funding lapse at midnight on February 13.
This is a developing story. USA Daily will provide updates as negotiations continue in the Senate.