The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is on the verge of a shutdown due to a lack of agreement between Democrats and Republicans regarding the budget for the immigration enforcement agency, ICE. Although a budget package was approved in early February that funds government operations through September, the DHS's budget was excluded from this package because of ongoing disputes between the parties concerning various aspects related to ICE.

As the deadline approaches, expected to hit at midnight on Saturday U.S. time, the inability of Congress to unify on the budget signifies a potential crisis not only for the DHS but also for various operations and services relying on its funding. Democrats have voiced concerns over current practices at ICE, insisting that changes need to be made for the budget approval, including stipulations against the use of masks during operations.

The division within Congress highlights the ongoing political polarization in the U.S. regarding immigration policy and enforcement. As the shutdown looms, the repercussions could extend beyond just the DHS, affecting employees and services that depend on this department’s funding, further complicating the challenges surrounding immigration reform in the country.