Speaker Johnson Slams DHS Funding Lapse, Blames Democrats

Speaker Johnson Criticizes DHS Funding Halt, Cites Border Security Failures

House Speaker Mike Johnson has sharply criticized Democrats for the ongoing funding lapse affecting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Speaking amid the shutdown, Johnson argued that the lack of funding is a direct result of Democratic policies that he claims prioritize “criminal illegal aliens” over American citizens. The funding lapse has led to disruptions, including at airports, and has raised concerns about the operational capacity of critical agencies like FEMA and the TSA.

DHS Funding Debate Stalls Critical Services

The Department of Homeland Security, the third-largest federal department, oversees ten agencies responsible for national safety. These include FEMA, which manages disaster relief funds, and the TSA, whose employees are currently not receiving paychecks. Johnson highlighted the potential consequences, questioning how long the situation will persist. He posed stark scenarios, asking if the country should wait for a firearm incident on a plane or an unmanageable natural disaster before addressing the funding gap.

“This is not a game. But these are not serious people. And they have demonstrated once again that they are putting the welfare of criminal illegal aliens above American citizens.”

Tragic Case Highlights Border Policy Concerns

Johnson invoked the memory of Sheridan Gorman, a college student from Chicago murdered by an undocumented immigrant. He stated that Gorman’s death is a direct consequence of what he described as “Democrat policies” that have kept the border open. According to Johnson, the individual responsible for Gorman’s death had been apprehended and released by authorities, later committing further crimes in a sanctuary city before the fatal shooting. This case, he argued, exemplifies the danger posed by prioritizing undocumented immigrants over American safety.

Vote Tally Reveals Party Divisions on DHS Support

To illustrate his point, Johnson presented a vote tally from a recent House resolution. The resolution simply expressed support for the Department of Homeland Security. He noted that all Republicans voted in favor, while 187 Democrats voted against it. Thirteen Democrats reportedly voted “present,” a move Johnson characterized as a lack of courage to state their position clearly.

Election Seen as Choice Between ‘Common Sense and Crazy’

Looking ahead to the upcoming election, Johnson framed the contest as a clear choice for America. He described it as a contrast between “common sense and crazy.” Johnson asserted that the Democrats are currently making “crazy policy decisions” that are harming Americans, stating that people have had enough.

Senate’s Funding Proposal Faces Scrutiny

When asked about a proposal from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to fund DHS, excluding enforcement operations, Johnson expressed skepticism. He acknowledged Senator John Thune’s difficult position dealing with Democrats in the Senate. Johnson suggested that if the Senate passes a partial funding bill, the House might have to consider it through reconciliation or other means. However, he expressed disappointment that only one party appears willing to fully fund national security and safety measures.

House Rejects Bill Fragmentation

Johnson reiterated that the House has consistently opposed breaking apart the DHS funding bill into individual agency appropriations. He explained that this approach is unusual for one of the twelve regular appropriations bills, which are a core function of Congress. He accused Democrats of using the funding debate as a political tactic, holding the American people “hostage” by creating long lines at airports and jeopardizing safety. Johnson believes that fragmenting the bill would only emphasize the Democrats’ alleged political maneuvering, which he called “shameful.”

Concerns Grow Over Potential Harm

The Speaker concluded by expressing deep concern that the ongoing situation could lead to further harm. He specifically worried about more individuals being victimized by undocumented immigrants, whom he claims are being protected by the Democratic party. Johnson stated that the situation is unacceptable and that the party is tired of it.

Looking Ahead

The focus now shifts to whether a bipartisan agreement can be reached to restore full funding to the Department of Homeland Security. The upcoming weeks will likely see continued debate and negotiation as the impacts of the funding lapse become more pronounced. The stance of both the House and Senate leadership, as well as the Democratic party’s willingness to compromise, will be critical in resolving this standoff.

Source: Speaker Johnson speaks amid DHS funding lapse (YouTube)