President Donald Trump announced on Thursday (April 2) that he intends to sign an order to pay all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) employees during the ongoing government shutdown, which has now reached 48 days. This decision comes as the shutdown continues without a legislative resolution, affecting thousands of DHS workers who have been working without pay.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump expressed gratitude to Republican leaders and criticized Democratic leaders for the impasse. He stated, “Help is on the way for our Brave and Patriotic Public Servants who have continued to work hard, and do their part to protect and defend our Country.”
The move follows a similar action taken by Trump to resume pay for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers, who had been calling out from work due to the lack of pay, causing delays at airport security lines. Trump’s new order is expected to extend to other non-law enforcement employees at DHS, including those at the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Coast Guard.
The funding lapse for DHS seemed likely to continue as the House considers a Senate plan to fund most of the agency, excluding immigration enforcement operations. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson have been working on a two-step plan to resolve the shutdown. The plan involves partially reopening DHS and pursuing a second bill to fund immigration and border operations, a move supported by Trump.
Despite the progress, some conservative lawmakers remain opposed to the plan, seeking full funding for all of Trump’s immigration initiatives. The House is expected to discuss the next steps in a conference call, while the Senate has already approved a bill to partially reopen DHS.
As the shutdown continues, lawmakers face pressure to return from their Easter and Passover recess to address the funding issues. Trump has directed GOP leaders to ensure full funding for DHS by June 1.
Recent Comments