Discussion on DHS Shutdown by Rep. Lou Correa
During a segment on CNN International’s “The Brief,” Rep. Lou Correa (D-Calif.) shared his thoughts on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown. He mentioned, “The White House has a lot of cards in this situation. We can move forward with this relatively minor shutdown while continuing current operations. They hold the cards, while we have very few, so we need to maintain our strength.”
Correa continued, saying, “The White House indeed has significant resources. We passed a substantial bill last year, amounting to $170 billion—more funding than the agency has ever received for purposes beyond deportation. Let’s not forget, President Trump’s focus was on deporting the most dangerous criminals. But what are we seeing now? Residents from my district, like Mother Good and Nurse Pretti, have faced violence, and they’ve expressed their fear for their lives. Many want to report that they’ve been beaten, arrested, and detained by ICE. This isn’t what America stands for. The DHS was created to safeguard Americans from foreign threats, yet it seems to function as a police force targeting anyone, including citizens. What Democrat Hakeem is advocating for are essentially safeguards to ensure that our agencies, like ICE and CBP, operate without infringing on our rights—without pursuing individuals without warrants or invading safe spaces like churches. These aren’t unreasonable requests. Now, it’s up to the current administration to decide whether we’re going to protect law-abiding citizens or simply trample over people’s rights.”
He added, “What’s really at stake here is that significant funding from the big bill. They have practically limitless freedom to use that money without facing repercussions. We need moderation. It’s essential for both Democrats and Republicans with common sense to unite and affirm that we need to protect our people and the hardworking taxpayers who contribute to our society. That’s what we truly need. But with that $170 billion at their disposal, they can ride out this small shutdown while continuing their initiatives. They hold the cards; we have very few, which makes it crucial for us to recognize the importance of the cards we do have.”
