Homeland Security Department Shuts Down as Funding Talks Stall

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) has said a deal is ‘not close,’ despite extensive negotiations on funding for the agency.

The U.S. Capitol viewed from the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial park in Arlington, Va., on Feb. 9, 2026. Madalina Kilroy/The Epoch Times

Funding for the Department of Homeland Security has lapsed, triggering a shutdown of the agency after Republicans and Democrats failed to reach a deal on immigration law enforcement in negotiations that have involved the White House.

The Feb. 14 lapse in appropriations came after senators departed Washington on Feb. 12 following final votes. With no agreement in sight, the lawmakers are not set to return until Feb. 23.