DHS shuts down as Democrats and Republicans remain deadlocked over ICE and CBP reform

On February 14, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shuts down as disagreements over immigration enforcement reform prevent passage of appropriations legislation. Following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents on January 24, 2026, and other incidents in Minneapolis, Senate Democrats announce they will not support full DHS funding without significant reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and CBP practices. Democrats demand reforms including a requirement for judicial warrants for agents to enter private property, restrictions on mask wearing by agents, body cameras for officers, and reduced detention-center bed capacity. Republicans refuse most Democratic demands, arguing they endanger federal agents and add unnecessary bureaucracy. The shutdown begins as neither chamber can reach consensus, with Senate Democrats willing to block appropriations bills and House Republicans opposed to piecemeal DHS funding.