WASHINGTON –Congress is facing a partial government shutdown tied to funding for the Department of Homeland Security, with Transportation Security Administration officers working without pay as negotiations continue over immigration policy.
While most federal agencies remain funded, the lapse affects DHS components including the Transportation Security Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Coast Guard, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Lawmakers left Washington for the Presidents Day recess, but House and Senate leaders told members to be prepared to return within 48 hours if negotiators reach an agreement.
What the shutdown means for travelers
Transportation Security Administration officers are working without pay during the funding lapse.
If the shutdown continues, airport staffing shortages and delays could occur, similar to previous funding lapses that strained security checkpoint operations.
Because the shutdown is limited to DHS, its public impact is narrower than during previous full government shutdowns.
Immigration policy at the center of negotiations
Negotiations are primarily between Democratic leaders and the White House.
Democrats say they are seeking greater transparency and accountability in immigration enforcement policies. Talks are ongoing, and no agreement has been announced.
Recent polling shows voters remain divided over the scope of federal deportation efforts, even as border crossings at the southern border have declined compared to previous years.
Democrats argue they have leverage in negotiations, while Republicans maintain immigration enforcement was a winning issue in the last election cycle. Both parties are expected to frame the outcome as a political victory heading toward the midterm elections.
House passes Protect Taiwan Act
Amid the budget fight, U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas secured House passage of the Protect Taiwan Act with near-unanimous support.
The bill would require the United States to push for China’s removal from certain international economic organizations, including the G20, if the administration determines Beijing poses an immediate threat to Taiwan.
Lucas has emphasized Taiwan’s critical role in semiconductor manufacturing. Taiwan produces roughly 90 percent of the world’s most advanced chips, components widely used in smartphones, vehicles and defense systems.
The bill now heads to the Senate.
Monks complete 2,300-mile walk for peace
Washington also saw a different headline this week as nearly two dozen Buddhist monks completed a 2,300-mile walk from Fort Worth, Texas, to the nation’s capital.
Organizers said the group arrived after 108 days on foot, crossing into the District via Chain Bridge before holding events in the city, including a stop at the National Cathedral.
The monks said their goal was to promote peace and encourage Congress to recognize Buddha’s birthday as a national holiday.
Lawmakers could return to Washington early if negotiators reach a deal. If not, the partial DHS shutdown could extend into next week.
The Protect Taiwan Act awaits consideration in the Senate.
