Democrats Push for ICE Reforms Amid Looming DHS Shutdown

Fri Feb 06 2026 00:47:53 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As negotiations continue over federal funding, Democratic leaders propose significant reforms to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while warning of potential shutdowns. The demands aim to enhance accountability and safety amid increasing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement.

With funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) running low, Democrats have unveiled a set of reforms targeting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), emphasizing the need for judicial oversight, the end of racial profiling, and improved safeguards for detainees. Senate Majority Leader John Thune criticized the proposals as unrealistic, pushing for bipartisan negotiations. As the deadline approaches, a government shutdown becomes a real possibility unless both parties can reach a compromise.

Negotiations at an Impasse

With the deadline for DHS funding nearing, Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed that the demands from Democrats for new ICE reforms are 'unrealistic.' In a showdown over immigration policy, he warned that disagreement could lead to a DHS shutdown.

Democrats, led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have insisted that they will not support the funding bill without addressing criticisms of ICE's enforcement tactics, especially following recent protests and violent incidents.

Demands for Reform

The Democratic leaders proposed ten substantial changes aimed at increasing accountability within ICE, including judicial warrants for arrests, better identification for officers, and halting racial profiling practices. They also called for enhancements in the use of force policy and legal protections for those detained.

Schumer stated that these reforms are about 'people's basic rights and safety,' contesting Republican claims that the proposals are politically motivated. 'If they don't agree, they need to explain why,' he said.

Republican Response

Republicans have dismissed the proposals as extreme. Thune remarked that such demands are not a starting point for negotiations. GOP leaders, like Sen. Katie Britt, characterized the requests as a 'ridiculous list' that doesn't resonate with the American public's concerns for safety.

Possible Shutdown Implications

As tensions rise, the risk of a DHS shutdown looms larger. Thune noted that the two parties remain far from a resolution. Without an agreement, the potential impacts include disruptions similar to the significant travel issues seen during previous government closures.

Some lawmakers are exploring alternative funding measures to avoid a total shutdown, focusing on essential services that could be funded separately from contentious immigration policies. This strategy, suggested by Republican Sen. Thom Tillis, aims to sidestep broader immigration reform to ensure critical agencies continue operating.

A Call for Bipartisan Cooperation

With days left until the funding deadline, it's unclear if any bipartisan negotiation efforts are underway. Both parties remain entrenched in their positions, leaving a potential shutdown hovering ominously over both congressional chambers.