Kennedy Floats Shutdown Deal, Says GOP Could Fund ICE Later
A partial government shutdown could be resolved quickly under a proposal floated by John Kennedy, who suggested Republicans accept a Democratic-backed funding plan — even if it excludes money for immigration…
A partial government shutdown could be resolved quickly under a proposal floated by John Kennedy, who suggested Republicans accept a Democratic-backed funding plan — even if it excludes money for immigration enforcement.
According to Fox News, while speaking on Sunday, Kennedy argued that reopening the government should take priority, with a separate path to restore funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement to follow soon after.
“I would accept the Democrats’ offer to open up everything except ICE at DHS. Then, the very next day, I would pass a reconciliation bill which crafts a budget for ICE,” Kennedy said during an appearance with Trey Gowdy.
He emphasized that such a move would not require Democratic backing, noting Republicans could act alone.
“We can do it without any Democratic votes. Certainly the Democrats are welcome to join US. We can do it with all Republican votes. That’s how we passed the One Big, Beautiful Bill…”
Kennedy framed the current impasse as avoidable, warning that the ongoing shutdown is placing unnecessary strain on federal workers.
The effects are already being felt in airports nationwide, where unpaid Transportation Security Administration agents are reportedly weighing whether to call out sick or look for other jobs as financial pressures build. The staffing concerns have contributed to longer wait times for travelers.