Republicans renew calls for Democrats to fund DHS after strike on Iran

Congressional Republicans are amping up pressure on Democrats to vote for funding the Department of Homeland Security after President Trump’s bombing of Iran early Saturday. 

The Senate Republican social media account issued a reminder: “Right now, Democrats in Congress are blocking funding for the Department of Homeland Security as part of their ongoing protest against the deportation of criminal illegal aliens.

“TSA agents, the Coast Guard, the Secret Service, and cybersecurity teams defending our nation against foreign attacks are all currently impacted. It’s time for Democrats to stop the games, put Americans first, and support the DHS funding bill.”

The partial government shutdown was egged on by Democrats’ increasing frustrations with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s aggressive tactics, leading to two American deaths in Minnesota. 

The two parties have struggled to make progress since the funding lapse began Feb. 14, when Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said that “Democrats remain committed to keep fighting for real reforms to rein in ICE and stop the violence.”

The Senate failed Monday to advance legislation that would reopen the department.

Sen. Dave McCormick said that “now would be a good time for Democrats to drop their opposition” to DHS funding and pass the bill to support America’s security.

“Continuing to play political games with our national security, given the unfolding situation in the Middle East, is dangerous,” the Pennsylvania Republican said.

The safety of Americans is at risk because of the department’s funding lapse, Rep. Lisa McClain, Michigan Republican, said.

“It’s past time Democrats stop obstructing and pass the bipartisan DHS funding bill the House already passed,” the chair of the House Republican Conference said.

Rep. Mike Lawler, New York Republican, said the potential of an Iranian counterattack makes it imperative that Mr. Schumer and Mr. Jeffries “immediately drop all opposition” to funding DHS.

Sen. John Cornyn, Texas Republican, echoed Mr. Lawler’s comments, asking the two Democratic leaders, “Whose side are you on?”

Rep. Andy Barr, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, called on House and Senate Democrats to vote to reopen DHS “immediately.”

“With the increased threat of retaliation from the Terrorist Regime of Iran and their proxies, Democrats will be aiding and abetting terrorists by keeping our Homeland Security Department shut down,” the Kentucky Republican said.

No congressional action is expected until the middle of next week at the earliest, as the Senate is out until Monday and the House is not voting until Wednesday.