Funding Discussion on TSA, FEMA, and Coast Guard

During a segment on Bloomberg’s “Balance of Power” on Friday, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) addressed a question regarding the funding for the TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard in the event of a DHS shutdown. She emphasized that her priority is to ensure a comprehensive agreement that holds ICE accountable for its actions. She expressed skepticism about the need for specific legislation to secure these funds, saying, “I don’t know if we want to give Kristi Noem any more funding at this point.”

Co-host Joe Mathews brought up a suggestion from Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), who proposed a funding deal that excludes ICE while supporting TSA but defunding FEMA. He asked if this was a good move, considering that these agencies already have significant resources from prior legislation.

Wasserman Schultz responded by mentioning the Reconciliation Act, describing it as containing billions in discretionary funds for the administration, allowing for resource allocation to the Coast Guard, FEMA, and TSA. She asserted that the focus should be on achieving a comprehensive agreement that curtails ICE’s excesses and upholds constitutional rights.

Mathews then queried whether Wasserman Schultz endorsed the idea of preserving funding for TSA and FEMA while sidelining ICE, considering the current political divide.

She reiterated her support for a broad agreement to rein in ICE, stating that the administration already has the flexibility to fund the crucial parts of Homeland Security without the need for additional legislative action. She concluded with, “And frankly, I don’t want to give Kristi Noem any more money at this point.”