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In a dramatic overnight session, the Senate ignited a high-stakes political battle, taking its first decisive step toward reviving the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Early Thursday, lawmakers voted to adopt a budget framework tied to the Senate GOP immigration funding plan, a move that would channel billions into Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol—despite fierce Democratic resistance. The measure now heads to the House, where its fate remains uncertain.

The department has remained shuttered since mid-February, a paralysis triggered by Democratic demands for sweeping reforms following the fatal shootings of two protesters by federal agents. Republicans, however, are charting a different course—one that prioritizes enforcement funding through the intricate and often grueling budget reconciliation process.

A Political Chess Match Unfolds

“This is a multistep journey,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune said, framing the effort as a strategic endgame. He argued Republicans would ultimately secure border protections while blocking Democratic attempts to cut funding for key enforcement agencies.

Unlike most legislation, reconciliation allows Republicans to bypass the Senate’s 60-vote filibuster threshold—an advantage given their 53-seat majority. But that shortcut comes at a cost: heightened scrutiny from the Senate parliamentarian and a marathon of amendment votes that can stretch late into the night.

That reality played out vividly as senators plunged into hours of voting beginning Wednesday evening and spilling into early Thursday morning. Democrats used the opportunity to spotlight alternative priorities, introducing amendments aimed at lowering health care and everyday costs.

“Instead of pouring hundreds of billions into enforcement, we should be easing financial burdens on Americans,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said, drawing a stark contrast in party agendas.

Despite the pushback, the Senate approved the resolution 50-48 shortly after 3:30 a.m., pushing the plan one step closer to reality.

A Long Road to Reopening DHS

Funding Strategy Takes Shape

The $70 billion resolution would fund ICE and Border Patrol for three years—covering the remainder of former President Donald Trump’s term. Once cleared by the House and vetted by the Senate parliamentarian, lawmakers could move to finalize the measure.

Notably, the Senate has already passed a bipartisan bill to fund the rest of DHS. But House Republicans are holding that legislation hostage, insisting progress on immigration enforcement funding must come first.

Thune and GOP leaders aim to keep the bill tightly focused. Still, pressure is mounting within their own ranks to expand it. Proposals range from agricultural aid to the SAVE America Act—a voting measure requiring proof of citizenship.

Sen. John Kennedy briefly disrupted proceedings, likening the bill to “the last train leaving the station” before midterm elections shut down major legislative opportunities. Though he ultimately relented, his warning underscored the urgency—and tension—within the GOP.