‘More Confusing by the Minute’: DHS Negotiations Are at a Standstill

Senate Republicans and Democrats can’t even agree on a path forward for negotiations.

Dick Durbin

J. Scott Applewhite/AP

With Transportation Security Administration shortages leading to longer lines at airports across the country, Democrats and Republicans are no closer to a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security.

It’s unclear whether Democrats even plan to continue trading offers with the White House.

Negotiations have been at a standstill since the White House sent Democrats what it called a “serious counter offer” on Feb. 26. President Donald Trump’s announcement that the agency’s secretary, Kristi Noem, would be replaced by Sen. Markwayne Mullin didn’t lead to a deal. Ongoing effects from the shutdown haven’t either.