Senate Votes for ICE and Border Funding
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) expressed his discontent with Senate Republicans after a majority voted in favor of a bill that allocates billions for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The bill passed with a 52-47 vote, primarily along party lines, though Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski from Alaska joined Democrats in voting against it.
“This evening, Senate Republicans endorsed a disturbing bill that highlights their true priorities: more funds and power for Donald Trump, with little concern for the financial struggles of working families. Republicans have turned a blind eye to permanently dismantling Trump’s $2 billion fund, leaving taxpayers to rely on vague assurances from Trump’s associates. That isn’t accountability; it’s a license to act,” Schumer stated.
President Trump Gains Ground Amid Republican Splits
Schumer criticized the Republicans further, saying they poured another $70 billion into what he described as Trump’s private law enforcement, defending his inner circle while dismissing Democrats’ efforts to address rising costs of housing, healthcare, and childcare. “The Republican agenda is stark and clear: funds for Trump, tax breaks for Trump, and nothing for hardworking Americans. Democrats advocate for putting money back into the pockets of everyday people, while Republicans continue to empower Trump,” he added.
Earlier, the Department of Justice mentioned in a statement that part of the settlement in President Trump’s dispute with the IRS included the establishment of an Anti-Weapons Fund to address claims from individuals affected by weapon usage. According to the DOJ, this fund would be funded with $1.776 billion from the Judgment Fund.
Republican Resistance to Trump’s Fund
During a Congressional hearing, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche revealed that plans for the anti-weaponization fund had not progressed, citing that it remains unestablished and no commissioners or claims have been appointed.
“Following tonight’s vote, it is evident to Americans that Republicans have chosen to protect Trump’s controversial fund instead of addressing the needs of the public,” Schumer observed in another statement. “The truth is out—Republicans fought hard to defend Trump while ignoring the issues affecting everyday Americans.”
Additionally, Schumer remarked on the opposition from Senate Republicans against various measures aimed at improving affordable housing, lowering gas prices, and ensuring health insurance coverage. “With families facing challenges, these Republicans decided to help Trump instead,” he concluded.
Fox News Digital has sought a comment from the White House about the next steps in this legislative process.
The funding package will require approval from the House of Representatives before it can be sent to President Trump.
