Source: Fox News
Summary
Senate Democrats blocked Homeland Security funding for the fifth time, as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown hit its 35th day. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Republicans have tried to reopen the agency, but Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and his caucus are not budging. Democrats have tried to force votes on standalone funding bills for other portions of DHS, but have been blocked. The White House has made concessions, but Democrats have deemed them unserious.
Our Reading
The process has entered a familiar phase.
Senate Democrats continue to block funding, despite rising concerns about threats at home and long airport lines. Republicans are trying to reopen the agency, but Democrats are not willing to make a deal. The White House has made concessions, but Democrats have deemed them unserious. A closed-door meeting between border czar Tom Homan and a group of senators has led to some movement, but a deal is still far apart. The Senate is moving to confirm a new DHS Secretary, but Democrats are unswayed.
The fact that the shutdown has become a familiar phase is perhaps the most striking aspect of this situation.
Author: Evan Null
