Senate takes first step to fund ICE, Border Patrol in bid to cut Dems out of the funding process

Senate Republicans initiated a budget reconciliation process to fund ICE and Border Patrol for three-and-a-half years, bypassing Democratic input after failed negotiations. The plan allocates up to $140 billion but aims for $70–$80 billion, with funding directed to the Senate Judiciary and Homeland Security committees. Democrats criticize the move as prioritizing immigration enforcement over affordability issues like healthcare and housing.