Dems Keep DHS Funding Options Open Ahead of GOP Talks

A sizable bloc of Senate Democrats hasn’t ruled out another short-term DHS funding patch as negotiations with Republicans continue, with leadership sending a DHS policy wishlist but Republicans showing little interest. Some Democrats who backed last year’s shutdown vote wouldn’t commit to backing another continuing resolution, citing the need to buy time and reach a deal by mid-month. The debate centers on the patch’s length: Democrats oppose a yearlong CR that would lock in DHS funding status quo, while Sen. Thune floats such a plan and Sen. Johnson remains noncommittal. Procedural moves ahead of the Senate’s adjournment will signal the path forward.