By Amanda Castro and Hannah Parry

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The risk of a federal government shutdown is climbing as Democrats and Republicans clash over funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The debate has intensified after fatal shootings in Minneapolis by federal agents, fueling state-level legislative pushes to rein in immigration enforcement and sharpening partisan divides in Washington.

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What To Know

• State pushback includes a Colorado bill allowing citizens to sue federal agents for civil rights violations, and a Delaware proposal targeting airlines that transport ICE detainees without warrants.
• A California lawmaker pledged bills requiring independent probes of ICE shootings and banning ICE from staging operations on state property.
• The deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis have accelerated Democratic efforts to restrict federal immigration tactics.
• Republican-led states are advancing measures to expand cooperation with ICE, including mandatory sheriff agreements in South Carolina and immigration checks tied to public benefits in Tennessee.
• Senate Democrats, including Amy Klobuchar, Adam Schiff, and Chris Murphy, say they will not support DHS funding without reforms, while Republicans like Lindsey Graham call the stance reckless.
• Prediction markets now put the chance of a shutdown above 75 percent, up sharply after the Minneapolis shooting.
• Congress must pass a funding bill by January 30 to avoid a shutdown, with Senate votes already delayed by the weather.

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Jan 28, 2026 at 07:58 PM EST

U.S. Capitol Police chief says ‘we should never settle for violence’ after Rep. Omar attack

U.S. Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan said that his agency is working with members of Congress to find the “balance” between protecting them from a significant rise in violence and threats against politicians, while still allowing them to engage with constituents, after the attack on Rep. Ilhan Omar.

“I don’t think that’s what anybody wants," Sullivan said referring to the political violence. "You know, I think, think democracy, we should expect disagreement, right? We should never settle for violence, and we’ve seen way too much violence lately,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan said that Capitol Police are working with the FBI to consider federal charges against Rep. Omar's attacker. The FBI typically gets involved if a sitting member of Congress is attacked, which is a federal crime.

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:52 PM EST

Minnesota judge says ICE has repeatedly violated court orders

U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz has accused ICE of repeatedly violating court orders, even as he canceled the hearing for Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to appear in court to face questions on the violations.

Schiltz ordered Lyons to either release a man who was arrested by immigration enforcement, or appear in court Friday to explain why he had not been given a bond hearing. The immigrant was released within a day of Schlitz making the order.

The judge also attached a list of 96 court orders that he said ICE had violated since January 1.

“The extent of ICE’s noncompliance is almost certainly substantially understated,” Schiltz said. “This list should give pause to anyone — no matter his or her political beliefs — who cares about the rule of law. ICE has likely violated more court orders in January 2026 than some federal agencies have violated in their entire existence.”

“ICE is not a law unto itself. ICE has every right to challenge the orders of this Court, but, like any litigant, ICE must follow those orders unless and until they are overturned or vacated,” Schiltz added.

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:45 PM EST

Bruce Springsteen releases song about Minneapolis resisting and protesting ICE

Bruce Springsteen has released a new song, called the Streets of Minneapolis, slamming ICE and describing how protesters have been resisting the Trump administration's immigration crackdown in Minnesota.

The lyrics describe how “a city aflame fought fire and ice, ’neath an occupier’s boots." Springsteen later refers to ICE agents as “King Trump’s private army.”

"I wrote this song on Saturday, recorded it yesterday and released it to you today in response to the state terror being visited on the city of Minneapolis. It’s dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good," Springsteen wrote on Instagram.

White House Abigail Jackson spokesperson, told Associated Press: “The Trump Administration is focused on encouraging state and local Democrats to work with federal law enforcement officers on removing dangerous criminal illegal aliens from their communities — not random songs with irrelevant opinions and inaccurate information.”

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https://www.instagram.com/p/DUD_Dl2ETeh/?hl=en

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:37 PM EST

DHS reviewing video that appears to show Alex Pretti kicking agents’ SUV

A video released Wednesday appears to show Alex Pretti confronting federal immigration officers on a Minneapolis street nearly two weeks before he was fatally shot during a separate encounter with Customs and Border Protection agents.

The Department of Homeland Security told Newsweek via email it was reviewing the video.

The video, recorded January 13 and published first by the digital outlet The News Movement, shows a man identified as Pretti, 37, engaging with federal agents alongside other protesters. The outlet said the video was independently reviewed by BBC News using facial-recognition technology, which identified the man with a high degree of confidence.

Newsweek has reached out to the BBC via email Wednesday night for comment.

In the recording, the man is seen striking the taillight of a government sport utility vehicle as agents prepared to leave the scene. The vehicle then stops, and officers get out and force the man to the ground. As the confrontation continues, agents deploy chemical irritants while bystanders shout, honk car horns and record the scene on their phones. A handgun appears visible at the man’s waistband, similar to footage taken on the day Pretti was killed.

"A week before Alex was gunned down in the street — despite posing no threat to anyone — he was violently assaulted by a group of ICE agents," Steve Schleicher, an attorney for the Pretti family, told CBS News. "Nothing that happened a full week before could possibly have justified Alex's killing at the hands of ICE on Jan 24."

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:32 PM EST

Sen. Schatz says Democrats have never been more united on funding bill

Sen. Brian Schatz, a Democrat from Hawaii, said that Democrats have never been more united on their demands for changes to the Department of Homeland Security funding bill.

“Nobody should mistake our willingness to negotiate for a lack of moral or political clarity," he said, after leaving a lunch with Democrats on Wednesday.

View this post on X

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:16 PM EST

Fatal shootings intensify scrutiny on DHS funding

Democrats say the urgency of the moment has been heightened by the recent deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, both fatally shot by federal agents in Minneapolis. The incidents have fueled protests, lawsuits and bipartisan calls for greater transparency and accountability in immigration enforcement.

“It is truly a moral moment,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn. “I think we need to take a stand.”

With no clear path to compromise and time running out, lawmakers in both parties acknowledged that a partial shutdown beginning Saturday appeared increasingly likely unless one side yields.

For now, Democrats say they are prepared to hold firm, betting that public outrage over immigration enforcement tactics will force concessions from Republicans and the Trump administration.

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:04 PM EST

Trump’s border czar Tom Homan to hold news conference in Minneapolis tomorrow

Border czar Tom Homan is holding a press briefing in Minneapolis at 8 a.m. ET Thursday - his first news conference since taking over ground operations for the immigration crackdown in Minnesota.

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:02 PM EST

Legislative roadblocks complicate deal

Significant procedural hurdles remain on the funding bill, even if an agreement could be reached in the Senate.

The House passed the remaining six appropriations bills as a single package, making it difficult to isolate DHS funding without unanimous consent from all 100 senators or a lengthy series of votes that would likely stretch beyond the Friday deadline.

House Republicans have shown little appetite for revisiting the package, warning that reopening negotiations could derail the funding legislation it passed last week.

In a letter sent to President Donald Trump this week, members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus pledged their support for the administration’s immigration enforcement efforts.

“The package will not come back through the House without funding for the Department of Homeland Security,” the group wrote.

Republican leaders had hoped to avoid another shutdown following last fall’s 43-day closure, which stemmed from Democratic demands to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies.

Jan 28, 2026 at 06:43 PM EST

GOP signals resistance, urges White House talks

Republicans have signaled skepticism, warning that reopening negotiations could derail funding legislation passed by the House last week.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said he was waiting for Democrats to clearly outline their demands and suggested discussions should be directed at the White House.

Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, cautioned against tying policy debates to government funding.

“We can have conversations about what additional oversight is required, what additional laws we should consider,” Cornyn said. “But not at the expense of shutting down the government.”

As of Wednesday, it was unclear how engaged the White House was in negotiations or whether it would accept any of the Democrats’ conditions.

Jan 28, 2026 at 06:27 PM EST

Democrats unite ahead of crucial vote

Democratic senators met privately Wednesday ahead of a key procedural vote Thursday on whether to advance legislation funding DHS and several other federal agencies. Government funding expires at midnight Friday, and Republicans will need Democratic support to avoid a shutdown.

Schumer said Democrats are unified behind what he described as “commonsense reforms” and placed the burden on Republicans and the White House to act.

“This is not law and order,” Schumer said of the administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement surge. “This is chaos.”

Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy, the top Democrat on the homeland security spending subcommittee, said the proposals reflect concerns shared across the party and beyond.

“None of this is revolutionary,” Murphy said. “None of this requires a new comprehensive piece of legislation.”

Both Murphy and Schumer said the changes should be enacted through Congress, not simply pledged by the administration.

Jan 28, 2026 at 06:16 PM EST

List of Democrat demands for federal agents

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has laid out a list of demands aimed at overhauling immigration enforcement practices at the Department of Homeland Security.

Under the proposals Schumer outlined, federal agents would be required to coordinate immigration arrests with local law enforcement, end so-called roving patrols in cities, wear visible identification, keep body cameras activated and follow a clear, enforceable code of conduct that allows for accountability when rules are violated.

“Masks off, body cameras on,” Schumer said, adding that agents should identify themselves to the public, as is standard practice in law enforcement.

Jan 28, 2026 at 06:02 PM EST

Springsteen releases protest song after Minneapolis ICE shootings

Bruce Springsteen unveiled a new song on Wednesday titled Streets of Minneapolis, written in response to the fatal shootings of two residents by federal immigration agents this month.

Springsteen said he composed the track on Saturday, the day ICU nurse Alex Pretti was killed in a confrontation with agents, and recorded it on Tuesday. He dedicated the song to “the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good,” a mother of three who was shot by an ICE agent on Jan. 7.

The lyrics denounce the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis, describing protests and federal tactics, and refer to President Trump as a “king” with a “private army.” The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Springsteen has long used his music to address political issues, previously releasing American Skin (41 Shots) about the police killing of Amadou Diallo. His latest release follows a surprise performance earlier this month, where he dedicated The Promised Land to Good and likened federal actions in Minneapolis to “Gestapo tactics.”

Other artists have joined in criticizing ICE, including Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, and Tom Morello, who announced a benefit concert for the families of Good and Pretti. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has defended the agency, saying immigration agents will be deployed at major events, including next month’s Super Bowl.

Jan 28, 2026 at 05:48 PM EST

Thune says shutdown hinges on White House–Democrat talks

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R‑S.D.) said Wednesday that negotiations between the White House and Senate Democrats will determine whether the government shuts down this weekend. Thune told reporters that Democrats should make their demands clear, noting that the administration is open to talks.

He pointed out that the current spending package already includes Democratic priorities, such as funding for body cameras for Immigration and Customs officers and de‑escalation training for law enforcement. Thune argued that the Homeland Security bill allocates less to ICE than a continuing resolution would.

A partial shutdown is set to begin at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, if the Senate fails to advance the measure, which requires 60 votes to overcome a filibuster. Democrats have vowed to block the bill unless DHS funding is removed, citing the recent fatal shooting of a Minnesota man by federal agents.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D‑N.Y.) reiterated Tuesday that Democrats are united against any legislation funding ICE without reforms. He warned that if Thune forces a vote on DHS funding, “he will guarantee yet another unnecessary government shutdown.”

The White House and GOP leaders have reached out to Democrats in recent days, but aides say no workable solutions have been offered. Republicans had hoped to avoid another closure after last fall’s 43‑day shutdown over Affordable Care Act subsidies.

Jan 28, 2026 at 05:34 PM EST

Federal workers urge Congress to avert shutdown, separate DHS funding

The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE‑IAM) on Wednesday called on Senate leaders to move forward with Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations and avoid another government shutdown. In a letter to Majority Leader John Thune and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, the union urged Congress to consider Department of Homeland Security funding separately from other measures, citing the recent fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by DHS agents.

The letter warned that failing to split the DHS bill could trigger a partial shutdown, leaving more than one million federal employees without pay, including hundreds of thousands required to continue working. “Federal employees know from experience that shutdowns are costly, inefficient, economically harmful, and damaging to the delivery of public services,” the union wrote.

NFFE National President Randy Erwin stressed the urgency of action, noting the disruption caused by last year’s prolonged shutdown. “The Senate has a clear path to address DHS funding while keeping the government open and sparing federal workers from another unwarranted and damaging shutdown,” he said.

Jan 28, 2026 at 05:19 PM EST

Trump administration’s use of ‘domestic terrorism’ label sparks backlash

The Trump administration has referred to two Americans killed by immigration agents in Minneapolis this month as “domestic terrorists,” a characterization experts say is highly unusual and legally imprecise.

Renee Good and Alex Pretti were fatally shot in separate incidents, with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and senior adviser Stephen Miller defending the agents’ actions and invoking the terrorism label. Vice President JD Vance also described the shootings as “classic terrorism.”

Legal scholars note that domestic terrorism is defined under the Patriot Act but does not exist as a formal criminal charge. Prosecutors typically pursue standard charges such as murder or assault, with terrorism designations applied during sentencing. Former Justice Department counsel Thomas Brzozowski warned that using the term prematurely erodes public trust.

Critics, including Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota, condemned the administration’s rhetoric as politicized and insensitive, pointing out that victims were branded terrorists before investigations concluded. The White House said President Trump views Pretti’s death as a tragedy but maintains that violence against federal agents must be treated with equal seriousness.

Jan 28, 2026 at 05:05 PM EST

Hennepin County Attorney reviews assault on Rep. Omar, fatal shootings

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said Wednesday her office is weighing possible charges in the assault on Representative Ilhan Omar during a town hall earlier this week. Preliminary reports indicated the substance sprayed at Omar and others was not toxic, though federal prosecutors may also pursue charges.

Moriarty confirmed her office is separately investigating the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis. She noted that state authorities have jurisdiction to review homicides committed in Minnesota, even as federal officials have declined to cooperate with the inquiry.

No decision has been made on whether charges will be filed in either case, Moriarty said.

Jan 28, 2026 at 05:00 PM EST

Full list of Democrat demands for ICE as government shutdown looms

With a partial government shutdown looming at the end of the week, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has laid out a list of demands aimed at overhauling immigration enforcement practices at the Department of Homeland Security, including an enforceable code of conduct for federal agents, mandatory identification during arrests and expanded use of body cameras.

Democrats say they will withhold the votes Republicans need to keep the government open unless the Trump administration agrees to major changes at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and related agencies. The standoff comes amid widespread outrage over the fatal shootings of two people by federal agents in Minneapolis this month.

Read in full: Full List of Democrat Demands for ICE as Government Shutdown Looms

Jan 28, 2026 at 04:52 PM EST

Veteran says Alex Pretti’s research helped save his life

A Minnesota veteran says the work of Alex Pretti, the ICU nurse killed by ICE agents on Saturday, played a direct role in saving his life. Dan Goedken told CNN’s Sara Sidner that Pretti’s research on Strep C was “instrumental” in his recovery from sepsis, a condition that developed after years of health complications linked to Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam.

Goedken’s wife, Karen, a former nurse, made the connection while reading about Pretti following his death. She said the discovery underscored how communities are bound together in unexpected ways. “We really have to understand that we all impact each other, and sometimes we never know how we’ve impacted each other,” she said.

Pretti, remembered by colleagues as a dedicated caregiver at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, treated critically ill veterans and contributed to research that informed their care. Goedken described his survival as a testament to the “help of strangers,” adding that his gratitude for Pretti’s work will endure. “Life goes on, and that legacy is long lasting,” he said.

Jan 28, 2026 at 04:38 PM EST

Germany upgrades US travel warning after Minneapolis unrest

Germany’s foreign ministry has issued an updated travel advisory urging its citizens in the United States to avoid large gatherings, citing the risk of violence following recent unrest in Minneapolis.

The warning marks an escalation in Berlin’s guidance for travelers, reflecting heightened concerns over public safety amid clashes tied to federal immigration enforcement. It follows a March update that cautioned Germans against overstaying visas or misleading border officials after two citizens were detained while attempting to enter the country.

Officials said the latest advisory is intended to help German nationals exercise caution amid rising tensions in U.S. cities, underscoring the ministry’s broader effort to keep travelers informed of evolving risks.

Jan 28, 2026 at 04:24 PM EST

Federal lawsuit challenges ICE over denial of legal access in Minnesota

A new federal lawsuit alleges that Immigration and Customs Enforcement is denying detainees in Minnesota access to attorneys until after they are transferred out of the state.

The plaintiffs argue that the practice violates constitutional rights and leaves immigrants without meaningful legal representation at critical moments in their cases. The suit asks a judge to order that detainees be guaranteed access to lawyers while still held in Minnesota facilities.

Advocates say the transfers prevent families and attorneys from locating clients, while ICE maintains broad authority over detention operations. The case adds to mounting legal challenges against federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota, where recent crackdowns have already sparked widespread controversy.

Jan 28, 2026 at 04:09 PM EST

Vance accuses Minneapolis mayor of undermining federal law enforcement

Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday accused Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey of directing local police not to assist federal agents, escalating tensions between city leaders and the Trump administration.

“How about federal law enforcement. Should they feel safe calling 911? Right now, they don’t, because you’ve told your police officers not to help them,” Vance wrote on X. His remarks followed Frey’s response to President Donald Trump, who had warned the mayor was “playing with fire” over immigration enforcement.

Frey reiterated in his post that Minneapolis police will not enforce federal immigration laws, saying the city’s focus remains on community safety. He made the comments after meeting with border czar Tom Homan.

Vance, who visited Minneapolis last week and met with ICE agents, framed Frey’s stance as a refusal to support federal law enforcement at a time of heightened unrest in the city.

Jan 28, 2026 at 03:55 PM EST

WATCH: Trump claims Kristi Noem ‘doing a very good job’

Jan 28, 2026 at 03:55 PM EST

Tillis slams DHS Secretary Noem, calls her ‘incompetent’

Sen. Thom Tillis (R‑N.C.) delivered a sharp rebuke of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, accusing her of being unqualified and ineffective as the Trump administration faces backlash over two fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis.

Tillis said he has “no confidence” in Noem despite President Donald Trump’s continued support, calling her “a complete failure on disaster response” and alleging she lacks the experience to manage a large federal agency. He criticized the department’s handling of resources and accused officials of being “asleep at the switch.”

The senator also took aim at White House adviser Stephen Miller, faulting him for prematurely labeling slain protestor Alex Pretti a “domestic terrorist.” Tillis described Miller and Noem as “amateurs in the strictest sense of the word.”

Responding to Trump’s remark that he was a “loser” for suggesting Noem be fired, Tillis quipped that such criticism made him “qualified to be homeland security secretary and senior adviser to the president.”

Pressed on whether he supports restrictions on ICE in upcoming DHS funding legislation, Tillis said the agency had already received additional resources under Trump’s domestic policy bill but blamed the administration for putting immigration enforcement agents at risk.

Jan 28, 2026 at 03:28 PM EST

American Airlines misses Q4 earnings amid shutdown impact

American Airlines (NASDAQ:AAL) reported fourth‑quarter 2025 adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.16, falling well short of analyst expectations and its own guidance. The miss was compounded by a government shutdown that cut $325 million from revenue, dragging down domestic performance and pushing passenger revenue per available seat mile 2.5% lower year‑over‑year.

Despite the setback, the airline posted modest 12‑month revenue growth of 1.27%, totaling $54.29 billion. Analysts remain cautiously optimistic: Bernstein and SocGen maintained an Outperform rating with a $20 price target, noting that shutdown effects mask underlying unit revenue strength. Evercore ISI kept its In Line rating with a $17 target, even as earnings fell below both its estimate and broader Street forecasts.

Premium products continued to outperform main cabin offerings, supporting a gross margin of 23.73%. While InvestingPro projects net income to decline in 2026, analysts suggest the shutdown’s drag may prove temporary as the company issues stronger forward guidance.

Jan 28, 2026 at 03:15 PM EST

WATCH: NRA break from MAGA over Pretti shooting

Jan 28, 2026 at 03:03 PM EST

Meta’s social platforms blocking links to ICE List: Report

Meta has reportedly begun blocking users from sharing links to a website that claims to list the names of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) employees.

Dominick Skinner, the creator of the ICE List website, told Wired that several volunteers he works with began reporting issues on Monday with posting links to the site on Instagram, Facebook and Threads.

Newsweek made several attempts to post a link to Ice List on these Meta platforms. In each instance, these attempts were blocked with warnings such as "link not allowed" and "couldn’t post comment" appearing. In the case of Facebook, the message appearing read: "Your content couldn't be shared, because this link goes against our Community Standards."

Newsweek has contacted Meta and the creators of the ICE List website, for comment.

Read in full: Meta’s Social Platforms Blocking Links to ICE List: Report

Jan 28, 2026 at 02:55 PM EST

St. Paul Mayor meets border czar, urges end to immigration operation

St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her met with White House border czar Tom Homan on Wednesday as Minnesota leaders continued to press the Trump administration to halt its immigration crackdown in the state.

Her, who came to the United States as a refugee from Laos, said in a statement that she emphasized “the importance of immigrants and refugees to the fabric of our community.” The meeting followed Homan’s discussions a day earlier with Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, both of whom have also urged federal officials to scale back enforcement operations.

Jan 28, 2026 at 02:39 PM EST

DHS clarifies agents on leave, Bovino removed from Minneapolis role

A Department of Homeland Security official confirmed Wednesday that the two agents involved in the fatal shooting of nurse Alex Pretti have been on leave since the incident, contradicting earlier claims by Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino that they remained on duty.

The clarification comes as the Trump administration moves Bovino out of Minneapolis, where he had been overseeing the immigration crackdown. His departure follows mounting criticism of the administration’s handling of the fallout from the shooting and conflicting statements about the agents’ status.

Jan 28, 2026 at 02:25 PM EST

Bondi announces arrests of 16 in Minneapolis unrest

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said Wednesday that federal agents have arrested 16 people in Minnesota accused of assaulting law enforcement during recent unrest in Minneapolis. Speaking from the city, Bondi emphasized that more arrests are expected as investigations continue.

In a post on X, Bondi underscored the administration’s commitment to federal enforcement. “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: NOTHING will stop President Trump and this Department of Justice from enforcing the law,” she wrote.

Jan 28, 2026 at 02:12 PM EST

Trump urges Congress to avert shutdown as DHS funding fight escalates

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Wednesday that President Donald Trump has “brought down the temperature” in Minnesota, where civil unrest has flared over aggressive federal immigration enforcement. Trump is now pressing Congress to avoid a partial government shutdown tied to disputes over Department of Homeland Security funding.

The shutdown deadline looms at 12:01 a.m. ET Saturday, with Senate Democrats vowing to block a $1.2 trillion spending package unless DHS funding is stripped. Their opposition intensified after the fatal shooting of nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis, just weeks after another citizen, Renee Nicole Good, was killed in similar circumstances.

Bessent told CNBC that Trump is “in constant contact” with lawmakers and urging them not to let the government close, though he declined to predict the outcome. He warned that another shutdown—the second in less than four months—could cause lasting economic damage, particularly in the service sector.

Trump has recently softened his rhetoric, saying the administration will “de-escalate a bit” in Minnesota after polls showed his immigration approval ratings falling. But Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Democrats remain united against DHS funding unless reforms are enacted, insisting Congress must deliver the fix rather than relying on the administration.

Jan 28, 2026 at 01:58 PM EST

Major U.S. government shutdowns involving furloughs

Not all funding gaps in Washington result in shutdowns. Several brief lapses—including in 1982, 1983, 2018, and 2024—did not disrupt services or furlough workers, as the Office of Management and Budget can direct agencies to continue operations if a resolution is expected quickly. However, when funding gaps do trigger furloughs, the effects are significant.

• 1980 – 1 day, FTC affected, 1,600 employees furloughed, cost $700,000 (President Jimmy Carter).
• 1981 – 4 days, nearly all agencies except Legislative Branch, 241,000 employees furloughed, cost $80–90 million (President Ronald Reagan).
• 1984 – 1 day, some agencies affected, 500,000 employees furloughed, cost $65 million (98th Congress).
• 1986 – 1 day, all agencies affected, 500,000 employees furloughed, cost $62.2 million (99th Congress).
• 1990 – 3 days, all agencies affected, 2,800 employees furloughed, cost $2.57 million (President George H. W. Bush).
• 1995 (Nov.) – 6 days, some agencies affected, 800,000 employees furloughed, cost $400 million (President Bill Clinton).
• 1995–1996 – 21 days, some agencies affected, 284,000 employees furloughed (President Bill Clinton).
• 2013 – 16 days, all agencies affected, 800,000 employees furloughed, cost $2.1 billion (President Barack Obama).
• 2018 (Jan.) – 3 days, all agencies affected, 692,900 employees furloughed, cost unknown (President Donald Trump, 1st term).
• 2018–2019 – 35 days, some agencies affected, 380,000 employees furloughed, cost $5 billion (President Donald Trump, 1st term).
• 2025 – 43 days, all agencies affected, 900,000 employees furloughed, cost $11 billion (President Donald Trump, 2nd term).

Jan 28, 2026 at 01:44 PM EST

WATCH: Former ICE officer blasts Trump’s Minneapolis crackdown

Jan 28, 2026 at 01:30 PM EST

Government shutdowns: What stays open and what closes

During a federal government shutdown, certain essential services remain operational while others grind to a halt. Emergency personnel—including active duty military, federal law enforcement, doctors and nurses in federal hospitals, and air traffic controllers—continue working. Agencies such as the National Weather Service, the Army Corps of Engineers, and parts of NASA maintain limited operations. The Department of the Interior issues guidance on which services continue, while Congress remains paid due to constitutional protections. Mail delivery is unaffected since the U.S. Postal Service is self‑funded, and some offices, like the Patent and Trademark Office, can rely on reserves to stay open temporarily. Even municipal governments, such as Washington, D.C. in 2013, have declared themselves essential to remain open. The Congressional Budget Office also continues operations to support legislative functions.

On the other hand, shutdowns force significant furloughs. At the Department of Defense, roughly half of the civilian workforce and dual‑status National Guard technicians are sent home without pay. Programs funded outside annual appropriations, including Social Security, may still face disruptions if they depend on activities tied to yearly funding.

Jan 28, 2026 at 01:16 PM EST

Full government shutdowns carry heavy economic and social costs

Before the mid‑1990s, government shutdowns had a limited impact. But since the 1995–1996 standoff, full shutdowns have forced hundreds of thousands of civilian federal employees into furloughs, with agencies even collecting government‑issued devices to prevent staff from checking email.

The scale of the federal workforce means shutdowns ripple through the economy. In 2013, 800,000 employees were locked out, pay was delayed for 1.3 million workers, consumer confidence dipped, and GDP growth slowed by 0.1–0.2 percent, costing more than keeping the government open. The 2018–2019 shutdown had similar effects, reducing GDP growth by $3 billion in late 2018 and $8 billion in early 2019, with $3 billion permanently lost.

Shutdowns also obscure data collection, leaving gaps in official reporting. Longer‑term consequences include disrupted scientific research, deferred maintenance, and reduced investment. The 2018–2019 shutdown curtailed law enforcement investigations, delayed air travel as essential staff stopped reporting, closed facilities serving Native Americans and tourists, and stalled regulatory approvals and immigration hearings.

Jan 28, 2026 at 01:02 PM EST

Trump warns Minneapolis mayor over immigration policy

President Donald Trump escalated his criticism of Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey on Wednesday, accusing him of “playing with fire” for maintaining the city’s policy that bars local employees, including police officers, from enforcing federal immigration law.

The rebuke came a day after Trump said his administration would “de‑escalate a little bit” in Minnesota, where tensions have risen over federal immigration operations. Frey had reiterated the city’s stance in a social media post following a meeting with Tom Homan, the White House border czar tasked with overseeing ICE activity in Minneapolis. Both Frey and Homan described their discussion as “productive.”

Responding to Trump’s attack, Frey defended the policy as a measure to ensure residents feel safe using city services, particularly calling 911. He argued police should prioritize preventing violent crime rather than targeting immigrant families, likening the approach to one once defended by former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who protected undocumented immigrants from being reported while accessing city services.

Jan 28, 2026 at 12:52 PM EST

DHS agents placed on leave after Minnesota protest shooting

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that agents involved in the fatal shooting of a protester in Minnesota over the weekend have been placed on administrative leave.

A DHS official described the decision as standard protocol, noting that the measure allows investigators to review the incident without interference.

Jan 28, 2026 at 12:44 PM EST

JD Vance weighs in on Frey’s response to Trump

Vice President JD Vance has entered the fray between President Donald Trump and Jacob Frey, as he criticized the Minneapolis mayor's comments about focusing on keeping people safe, rather than enforcing federal immigration laws.

"How about federal law enforcement. Should they feel safe calling 911?" Vance asked on X, in response to Frey's earlier post.

"Right now, they don't, because you've told your police officers not to help them."

View this post on X

Jan 28, 2026 at 12:39 PM EST

Schiff calls for overhaul of ICE and CBP, blames ‘Big Ugly Bill’

Sen. Adam Schiff intensified criticism of federal immigration enforcement on Tuesday, declaring that Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection are “out of control” and in need of a complete overhaul.

View this post on X

Jan 28, 2026 at 12:26 PM EST

Frey defends Minneapolis policy, rejects Trump’s immigration criticism

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey pushed back against President Donald Trump’s criticism on Wednesday, reaffirming that city police will not participate in federal immigration enforcement. Frey said the role of local officers is to protect residents from crime, not target immigrant families.

“The job of our police is to keep people safe, not enforce federal immigration laws,” Frey said, adding that officers should focus on preventing homicides rather than pursuing working parents. He compared the city’s approach to policies once adopted in New York under former Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who defended undocumented immigrants’ access to city services.

Trump had warned in a social media post earlier in the day that Frey’s stance could violate federal law. Frey countered that public safety depends on ensuring all residents feel secure calling 911, regardless of immigration status.

Jan 28, 2026 at 12:22 PM EST

Frey reacts to Trump’s warning he’s ‘playing with fire’

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey pushed back against President Donald Trump's accusation he was "playing with fire" by saying that his city's job was not to enforce federal immigration laws.

"The job of our police is to keep people safe, not enforce fed immigration laws," Frey wrote on X.

"I want them preventing homicides, not hunting down a working dad who contributes to MPLS & is from Ecuador. It’s similar to the policy your guy Rudy (Giuliani, former New York City mayor) had in NYC. Everyone should feel safe calling 911," he added.

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Jan 28, 2026 at 12:18 PM EST

Trump says Mayor Frey is ‘playing with fire’ after he said Minneapolis doesn’t enforce federal immigration laws

The short-lived truce between the Trump administration and Minnesota officials may already be over, as President Donald Trump warned Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey was "playing with fire" over his latest comments on the federal immigration crackdown.

Trump spoke with both Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz this week to deescalate tensions in the state in the wake of the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti. Trump also reassigned divisive figure Greg Bovino, the Border Patrol commander-at-large.

On Wednesday, Frey met with Trump's border czar Tom Homan. The mayor described them having a "productive conversation" in which he said he laid out "the serious negative impacts this operation has had on Minneapolis and surrounding communities" and "made it clear that Minneapolis does not and will not enforce federal immigration laws."

But on Wednesday, Trump took to Truth Social to complain about Frey's comments.

"Surprisingly, Mayor Jacob Frey just stated that, “Minneapolis does not, and will not, enforce Federal Immigration Laws.” This is after having had a very good conversation with him. Could somebody in his inner sanctum please explain that this statement is a very serious violation of the Law, and that he is PLAYING WITH FIRE!" Trump wrote.

Jan 28, 2026 at 12:13 PM EST

Minnesota lawsuit challenges DHS over denial of legal access

The Advocates for Human Rights and a detained individual have filed a class action lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security, alleging unconstitutional practices at detention facilities in Minnesota. The suit claims federal agents are deliberately blocking immigrants from speaking with lawyers, transferring detainees out of state before counsel can reach them, and pressuring individuals to abandon their rights.

Testimonies from detainees describe violent arrests, overcrowded cells, shackling, and denial of confidential communication. One 19‑year‑old Minnesota resident said he was thrown to the ground despite presenting immigration papers, then transported out of state without explanation. Another refugee reported being held with nearly 100 people in unsanitary conditions, mocked by agents, and pressured to sign self‑deportation papers without access to legal representation.

Advocates argue these tactics violate constitutional protections and federal law. “Access to counsel is a fundamental human right,” said Michele Garnett McKenzie, executive director of The Advocates for Human Rights. Democracy Forward and Fredrikson & Byron P.A. represent the plaintiffs, characterizing the practices as a deliberate strategy to evade accountability.

The lawsuit seeks immediate court intervention to restore attorney access, ensure confidential communications, and halt the use of the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building as a long‑term detention site. Filed as The Advocates for Human Rights et al. v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security et al., the case underscores growing concerns over immigration enforcement in Minnesota.

Jan 28, 2026 at 11:59 AM EST

Trump lashes out at GOP senators criticizing Noem

President Donald Trump sharply rebuked two Republican senators after they questioned Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s leadership in the wake of the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.

In a phone interview with ABC News, Trump labeled Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Thom Tillis of North Carolina “losers” and “terrible senators,” dismissing their criticism as irrelevant. He praised his immigration agenda, claiming the U.S. border is “one of the strongest borders anywhere in the world.”

Tillis, who is not seeking re‑election, accused Noem of mishandling the administration’s immigration strategy and said she had “nothing to be proud of” during her tenure. He also blasted senior White House aide Stephen Miller, calling him incompetent. Murkowski, meanwhile, voiced disappointment in Noem’s performance and said the department would be better served with new leadership, though she noted the decision rests with the president.

Jan 28, 2026 at 11:46 AM EST

Ecuador protests ice agent’s attempted entry into Minneapolis consulate

Ecuador’s foreign ministry has lodged a formal protest with the United States after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent tried to enter the country’s consulate in Minneapolis without authorization. Consulate staff stopped the agent at the door, reminding him that under the Vienna Conventions, consular buildings are off‑limits to host nation law enforcement unless permission is granted.

Video verified by The New York Times shows a staff member confronting the agent, who appeared to open the door before being told he was not allowed inside. The agent responded, “If you touch me, I’ll grab you.” The consulate, located in Northeast Minneapolis, bears Ecuador’s national seal.

Ecuador said it filed its complaint with the U.S. Embassy in Quito to ensure such incidents are not repeated. The Department of Homeland Security has not commented.

The episode comes amid heightened tensions over federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota. Just a week earlier, ICE agents detained five‑year‑old Liam Conejo Ramos outside his school. The image of the child in a blue bunny hat and Spiderman backpack sparked outrage across the Twin Cities and beyond. Liam and his father, who arrived from Ecuador in 2024, are pursuing asylum claims.

Jan 28, 2026 at 11:33 AM EST

Senate GOP split on immigration restrictions as shutdown deadline nears

Senate Republicans are divided over whether to allow Democratic amendments to a must‑pass spending bill that funds major federal agencies, with a Friday deadline looming to avoid a partial government shutdown.

According to a source familiar with the talks, GOP senators will debate the issue at their party lunch next Tuesday. Some Republicans argue that conceding to Democratic demands for new limits on immigration enforcement would force the House to reconvene and stage a difficult vote, while others warn that refusing changes could leave Democrats no choice but to block the bill outright.

The dispute comes amid growing backlash over President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota, which has intensified calls from Democrats to rein in Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Senate Democrats are expected to unify around a package of ICE restrictions, which they plan to discuss during their own caucus lunch today.

The outcome of these negotiations will determine whether Congress can keep the government open or whether political gridlock will trigger another shutdown.

Jan 28, 2026 at 11:27 AM EST

When will the Senate vote to keep government open?

The Senate returns to session on Wednesday but a vote to prevent a possible government shutdown 2026 is not planned until tomorrow.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune has teed up a Senate vote ahead of the shutdown deadline at midnight on Friday. If senators are unable to approve the funding bill, which includes funding for the DHS and ICE, then the shutdown will begin this weekend.

Senate Democrats, including Amy Klobuchar, Adam Schiff, and Chris Murphy, say they will not support DHS funding without reforms, while Republicans like Lindsey Graham call the stance reckless.

Jan 28, 2026 at 11:18 AM EST

What happened with SNAP during the last government shutdown?

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By the 20th day of the 2025 government shutdown, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program faced a looming funding crisis. The Department of Agriculture warned that without new appropriations, food aid for roughly 42 million Americans could run out in November.

SNAP requires about $8 billion per month to operate, but only $6 billion in contingency funds remain available, leaving a $2 billion gap. Acting administrator Ronald Ward instructed state agencies on October 16 to pause preparations for November benefits, citing insufficient resources. States including Pennsylvania, Texas, Oregon, West Virginia, Minnesota, Illinois, New York, and Colorado announced they would be unable to issue payments if the shutdown continued past late October.

The funding lapse coincided with new work requirements and eligibility restrictions scheduled to take effect November 1, changes projected to cut benefits for millions more even if the shutdown ended. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins warned that “millions of vulnerable families” risked losing access to food assistance within weeks.

Jan 28, 2026 at 11:05 AM EST

Judicial warrant demand sparks clash over ICE arrest powers

Federal Attorney Bill Essayli warned Tuesday that Democratic proposals to require judicial warrants for all Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests would cripple enforcement efforts. In a post on social media, Essayli called the idea a “poison pill,” arguing it would amount to amnesty for undocumented immigrants who have not committed federal felonies.

His comments followed reporting by journalist Bill Melugin, who noted that such a requirement would sharply limit ICE’s reach, restricting arrests to individuals accused of new federal crimes.

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Jan 28, 2026 at 10:52 AM EST

Schumer vows to block DHS budget over ICE actions

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer escalated the funding fight on Tuesday, declaring that his caucus will not approve the Department of Homeland Security budget unless Immigration and Customs Enforcement is overhauled.

“In the wake of ICE’s abuses and the administration’s recklessness, Senate Democrats will NOT pass the DHS budget until it is rewritten,” Schumer wrote on social media. He added that he would personally vote against any legislation that funds ICE “until it is reined in and overhauled.”

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Jan 28, 2026 at 10:38 AM EST

ICE accused of attempting incursion into Ecuadorian consulate in Minneapolis

United States immigration agents tried to enter Ecuador's consulate in Minneapolis on Tuesday but were denied access by consulate staff, according to the country's Foreign Ministry.

Consulate officials said they stopped an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent from entering the building and activated emergency protocols to protect Ecuadorian nationals who were present at the time. Videos circulating on social media show staff denying the agency entry to the building.

Ecuador's government called the incident an "attempted incursion" and filed a formal "note of protest" with the U.S. Embassy in the capital, Quito, seeking assurances that similar actions would not occur in the future.

Newsweek has contacted the consulate and the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, for comment.

Under international law, consular offices are protected from unauthorized entry by host country authorities. The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, which the U.S. has ratified, bars law enforcement from entering areas of a functioning consulate used for official business without permission from the head of the consulate, except in emergencies such as a fire or other immediate danger.

Continue reading: ICE Accused of Attempted Incursion Into Ecuadorian Consulate in Minneapolis

Jan 28, 2026 at 10:24 AM EST

Stephen Miller defends ICE agents after admitting protocol may have been broken

White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller publicly defended Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers on social media, just hours after acknowledging that federal agents assisting them in Minneapolis may not have followed proper protocol before the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti.

In a post on X, Miller praised ICE agents as operating under “the most adverse conditions imaginable,” claiming they are stalked and attacked while carrying out their duties. He described them as “heroic” and devoted to protecting U.S. sovereignty.

The remarks followed a statement Miller gave to CNN, in which he said additional Department of Homeland Security officers were deployed to Minneapolis to safeguard ICE agents during arrests. He added that officials are reviewing why the Customs and Border Protection team may not have adhered to established procedures.

The acknowledgment of potential misconduct marked a rare concession from one of the administration’s most hardline immigration voices, even as Miller sought to rally support for ICE amid mounting criticism over the deadly operation.

Jan 28, 2026 at 10:10 AM EST

Trump calls for ‘honorable’ probe into Minneapolis shooting amid immigration crackdown

President Donald Trump has sought to calm tensions in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents, pledging an “honorable and honest” investigation and promising to “de‑escalate” immigration enforcement operations in the city.

Trump praised Border Czar Tom Homan, who was dispatched to oversee the crackdown, and downplayed the removal of Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino, calling it “a little bit of a change” rather than a retreat. He also defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, saying she would not step down despite mounting criticism.

The president distanced himself from remarks by Noem and senior aide Stephen Miller, who labeled Pretti a “domestic terrorist,” insisting he had not heard such characterizations. Still, Trump criticized Pretti for carrying a firearm and ammunition at the protest, though Minnesota law does not prohibit concealed weapons at demonstrations.

Asked if the shooting was justified, Trump said he would personally monitor the investigation. “I want a very honorable and honest investigation. I have to see it myself,” he told reporters.

Jan 28, 2026 at 09:54 AM EST

Longest U.S. government shutdown stretched 43 days in 2025

The United States endured its longest government shutdown in history in the fall of 2025, lasting 43 days. The crisis began after a late September White House meeting between President Donald Trump and Senate Democrats failed to produce a deal to keep the government open.

At midnight on October 1, the shutdown took effect when Senate Democrats blocked a continuing resolution passed by the Republican‑controlled House. Democrats opposed the measure because it did not include an extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies that had been temporarily expanded under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

The continuing resolution was rejected 14 times before lawmakers reached a compromise on November 10. The Senate ultimately passed a revised appropriations bill without the subsidy extension, with Republicans promising a separate vote on the issue by mid‑December. The House approved the measure two days later, and President Trump signed it into law on November 12.

Jan 28, 2026 at 09:39 AM EST

Senate gridlock deepens as House recess blocks shutdown fix

With less than three days before federal funding expires, a partial government shutdown now appears imminent. The standoff centers on the Department of Homeland Security, where Senate Democrats insist new restrictions on immigration enforcement must be written into law before they will support a spending package.

Republicans, under pressure after the deaths of two citizens in Minnesota during federal operations, say they are willing to hear Democratic proposals but prefer a handshake deal with President Trump rather than codified changes. Democrats argue they cannot trust the administration to follow through without legislative guarantees.

The House has already passed a six‑bill, $1.3 trillion package covering most federal agencies, but Speaker Mike Johnson has signaled no plans to recall members from recess to approve revisions. That leaves agencies including Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Transportation, Treasury, and Housing and Urban Development at risk of closure after Friday night.

Democrats have floated splitting DHS funding from the broader package to keep other agencies open, but Senate Majority Leader John Thune opposes that approach. Even if the Senate passes a revised plan, the House would need to reconvene to approve it.

Ironically, DHS itself would be shielded from many of the shutdown's effects due to $178 billion in mandatory funding enacted last year, including $75 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Other departments, however, would face furloughs and service disruptions if no deal is reached.

Jan 28, 2026 at 09:26 AM EST

What is a continuing resolution and how it works

A continuing resolution, or CR, is a temporary measure Congress uses to keep the government funded when full appropriations bills have not been enacted. Typically, CRs extend funding at prior-year levels, allowing agencies to continue operating while lawmakers finalize the remaining spending measures. They can apply to specific appropriations or cover all discretionary functions, sometimes lasting for an entire fiscal year.

Unlike standard appropriations bills, CRs generally replicate past allocations rather than making detailed decisions on individual accounts. In many cases, funding is simply scaled up or down by a percentage. CRs may also include “anomalies,” which adjust certain programs to avoid problems caused by continuing outdated policies, or “policy riders,” which attach restrictions or directives to shape federal activity.

When a CR is described as “clean,” it means the measure contains no policy riders or politically motivated changes, serving only to extend existing funding levels. While CRs are a practical tool to prevent shutdowns, they often highlight Congress’s inability to reach agreement on long‑term budget priorities.

Jan 28, 2026 at 09:13 AM EST

How Congress can avert a government shutdown

There are two primary ways lawmakers can prevent a government shutdown: by passing appropriations bills or by enacting a continuing resolution. Under the modern budget process, the House and Senate Appropriations committees are tasked with producing 12 separate spending measures each year, divided by subject area and funding levels. These bills are often bundled into larger “omnibus” or “minibus” packages to streamline passage.

To avoid a partial shutdown at the end of January, Congress must approve the six remaining appropriations bills and secure the president’s signature by the deadline. This can be done individually or as part of a minibus package. If lawmakers fail to act, a continuing resolution would be required to keep unfunded agencies operating at prior fiscal year levels.

The House has already passed all 12 appropriations bills, including the six outstanding measures, and sent them to the Senate in a single minibus. Should the Senate amend or pass only part of the package, the legislation would need to return to the House for approval, adding another layer of complexity to the process.

Jan 28, 2026 at 08:59 AM EST

Government shutdowns often cost billions, not save money

Despite the perception that halting federal operations might save money, evidence shows shutdowns are expensive. Agencies must spend resources preparing contingency plans, while user fees and other charges go uncollected. Federal contractors often raise bids to account for payment uncertainty, and furloughed employees are guaranteed back pay, erasing potential savings.

During the 2013 shutdown, the Office of Management and Budget estimated $2.5 billion was paid to furloughed workers for hours not worked, along with $10 million in penalty interest and lost fees. The economic impact is even greater. The Congressional Budget Office found that the 2018‑2019 shutdown reduced GDP by $11 billion, with $3 billion in permanent losses. Longer shutdowns also stall private investment and hiring, as businesses cannot secure permits, certifications, or federal loans.

A 2019 Senate report concluded that the 2013, 2018, and 2019 shutdowns wasted nearly $4 billion in taxpayer dollars. More recently, the CBO estimated the six‑week shutdown in 2025 cut real GDP by $11 billion and delayed $54 billion in federal spending.

Shutdowns, far from saving money, consistently impose high costs on both government operations and the broader economy.

Jan 28, 2026 at 08:47 AM EST

History of U.S. government shutdowns since 1976

Since the modern budget process was introduced in 1976, Congress has faced 21 funding gaps, periods when appropriations were not enacted for at least one day. Before 1980, these lapses did not halt government operations, but since then shutdowns have become a recurring feature of political standoffs.

Most gaps have been brief, lasting three days or fewer, often over weekends when the impact was minimal. But five “true” shutdowns have significantly disrupted federal operations. The first two occurred in late 1995 and early 1996, when clashes between President Bill Clinton and a Republican Congress over spending levels led to a combined 26 days of closures. In 2013, a dispute over funding the Affordable Care Act triggered a 16‑day shutdown.

The fourth shutdown, spanning December 2018 and January 2019, was technically partial because several appropriations bills had already passed. It centered on President Trump’s demand for border wall funding. The most recent shutdown, lasting 43 days from October to November 2025, was the longest in U.S. history, driven largely by disagreements over expiring ACA subsidies.

Jan 28, 2026 at 08:33 AM EST

Kristi Noem’s DHS leadership sparks shutdown standoff in Senate

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s continued leadership has become a central obstacle in negotiations to avert a government shutdown, with Democrats and some Republicans openly questioning her ability to lead.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer labeled Noem “incompetent” and vowed to block any funding package that includes money for the Department of Homeland Security unless she is removed. Several centrist Democrats who previously worked with Republicans to end last year’s shutdown, including John Fetterman and Jacky Rosen, have joined calls for her ouster.

Republican Senator Thom Tillis said he has “none at all” confidence in Noem’s leadership, citing her failure to de‑escalate tensions and protect both ICE officers and citizens. Other Republicans, including Rand Paul and Mark Amodei, have expressed frustration with her handling of recent fatal shootings in Minneapolis, while Susan Collins urged a pause in enforcement operations in Minnesota and Maine.

President Trump has reiterated his support for Noem, even as he dispatched border czar Tom Homan to Minnesota in what many in Washington view as a sign of diminished confidence. Trump insisted she is doing “a very good job” and rejected speculation that she might resign.

With public trust in ICE falling — a new poll shows 55 percent of Americans have little confidence in the agency — the standoff over Noem’s leadership is intensifying. Democrats warn they will block DHS funding, raising the likelihood of a partial shutdown by week’s end.

Jan 28, 2026 at 08:20 AM EST

Mandatory spending continues during government shutdowns, with limits

Mandatory spending programs, unlike discretionary spending, are authorized on a multi‑year or permanent basis and generally continue to operate during a government shutdown. This means benefits such as Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are not interrupted when Congress fails to pass annual appropriations bills.

However, services tied to these programs can be reduced if they rely on discretionary funding. Past shutdowns illustrate the impact: in 1996, Social Security checks were issued but staff handling new enrollments and card requests were furloughed. In 2013, benefit verification and replacement card services were paused, though applications and address changes were still processed.

Other programs have faced similar challenges. During the 2018‑2019 shutdown, the Department of Agriculture had to use special authority from a prior continuing resolution to keep Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits flowing.

Jan 28, 2026 at 08:16 AM EST

Partial government shutdown would trigger federal furloughs

A partial government shutdown would force furloughs across major federal agencies that lack current funding, including the Departments of Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Homeland Security, Treasury, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and State, as well as the federal judiciary, the General Services Administration, and several White House offices.

Non‑essential employees in these agencies would be sent home without pay, while essential staff would be required to continue working, also without pay, until funding is restored. Thanks to legislation enacted in 2019, furloughed federal workers are guaranteed back pay once the shutdown ends. Federal contractors, however, have historically not received compensation for lost work.

Some exceptions exist. Under the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” of 2025, immigration and border personnel, along with certain Defense Department functions, were funded through mandatory appropriations. Those employees would likely continue to receive pay even during a shutdown.

Jan 28, 2026 at 08:12 AM EST

What does a government shutdown affect?

When Congress fails to pass all annual appropriations bills, federal agencies must follow shutdown plans coordinated by the Office of Management and Budget. These plans determine which activities pause until funding is restored, often requiring furloughs and halting discretionary operations. Essential services tied to public safety, such as border protection, hospital medical care, air traffic control, and law enforcement, continue to operate, though many employees work without pay until appropriations resume.

Mandatory programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid remain in place, as do services funded by permanent user fees, such as visa processing. Agencies with advanced appropriations, including parts of the Veterans Health Administration, are minimally affected.

In a partial shutdown, where only some of the 12 funding bills are enacted, impacts vary. Social Security checks are still issued, but benefit verification and card services may stop. Air travel can face delays if TSA agents or air traffic controllers miss work without pay, as seen in past shutdowns. The NIH may halt new patient admissions and grant processing, while the IRS could delay tax refunds and loan verifications. SNAP benefits are generally protected but can face administrative strain if a shutdown lasts beyond 30 days.

Because DHS and immigration enforcement agencies currently have mandatory funding under recent legislation, their operations would likely continue with minimal disruption. Still, the longer a shutdown lasts, the more strain is placed on federal services and the workers who keep them running.

Jan 28, 2026 at 08:08 AM EST

What is a government shutdown?

The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget defines a government shutdown as occurring when Congress fails to pass all required annual appropriations bills that fund federal agencies and programs. Each fiscal year, lawmakers must approve 12 separate spending measures, which the president then signs into law. If some of those bills are not enacted, or if a temporary continuing resolution is not adopted, agencies covered by the unfunded measures must halt non‑essential operations.

During a shutdown, essential services such as airport security, law enforcement, and mandatory programs like Social Security continue to operate, though many federal employees are required to work without pay. Others are furloughed until new funding is approved.

For fiscal year 2026, six appropriations bills have been signed, but without passage of the remaining six or a stopgap measure, the government faces a partial shutdown.

Jan 28, 2026 at 08:04 AM EST

What is a partial government shutdown?

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A partial government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to approve all 12 annual appropriations bills, leaving only certain departments without funding. Agencies that lack appropriations must halt non‑essential operations, while those with approved budgets continue to function.

Essential services such as airport security and federal law enforcement typically remain in place, though employees often work without pay. Others deemed non‑essential are furloughed until funding resumes. The impact is felt in areas like national parks, passport processing, and IRS audits, which may pause, while programs such as Social Security and mail delivery continue uninterrupted.

The disruption lasts until lawmakers pass the remaining spending bills or until a temporary continuing resolution is enacted. As seen in early 2026 scenarios, a partial shutdown causes immediate service interruptions and uncertainty for federal workers, but it does not halt all government activity.

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:58 AM EST

Why the government could be shutting down

The federal government is on the verge of a partial shutdown beginning early Saturday, as Senate Democrats and Republicans remain locked in a standoff over funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

The impasse follows the killing of Alex Pretti, a 37‑year‑old nurse in Minneapolis, by federal agents — an incident that has galvanized Democratic opposition to a $1.2 trillion spending package already passed by the House. Democrats insist the DHS portion be removed before they will provide the votes needed to clear the Senate’s 60‑vote threshold.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the administration’s recent retreat from immigration actions in Minnesota does not resolve the issue, warning that Democrats will block any bill that continues funding ICE without reforms. Majority Leader John Thune countered that negotiations are ongoing and urged Democrats to avoid what he called a “needless shutdown.”

If no agreement is reached by Friday night, multiple agencies, including Defense, Treasury, State, Labor, Housing and Urban Development, Transportation, and Education, would lose funding. Essential employees would continue working without pay, while nonessential staff would be furloughed.

Unlike last year’s shutdown, DHS could continue operating using funds provided under prior legislation, allowing immigration enforcement to proceed. Other agencies, however, have not yet released contingency plans, raising uncertainty as tax season begins and services such as IRS operations and Head Start programs face potential disruption.

Jan 28, 2026 at 07:53 AM EST

Shutdown odds surge as Democrats resist ICE funding

The prospect of a federal government shutdown is intensifying as Senate Democrats signal they will not support a spending package that includes money for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Prediction markets now place the likelihood of a shutdown at more than 75 percent, a sharp jump from the weekend, after federal agents fatally shot a Minneapolis resident during immigration enforcement operations.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota said she would not vote to give ICE additional resources, echoing colleagues Adam Schiff of Maryland and Chris Murphy of Connecticut, who argued the Department of Homeland Security is operating without accountability. They indicated reforms would be required before Democrats would consider backing DHS funding.

Republicans countered that withholding money for border enforcement is reckless. Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina urged Democrats to reconsider, while Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire called for de‑escalation and further discussion.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer reinforced the Democratic position, saying his caucus would block the bill if DHS funding remains attached.

Lawmakers face a Jan. 30 deadline to avert a shutdown. The House has already passed a $1.2 trillion package, but Senate votes have been delayed by winter weather, leaving negotiations in limbo.

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