Senate Democrats blocked funding for the Department of Homeland Security, according to a Feb. 12 vote summary from the United States Senate.
The decision has led to a continued funding lapse affecting several agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The vote comes at a time when spring break travel is increasing, raising concerns about operational disruptions and employee pay.
Senate roll call records show Minnesota Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith voted against a cloture motion to advance H.R. 7147, a bill to fund the federal government through September 30, 2026. Most Senate Democrats opposed the measure, with the exception of Senator John Fetterman. The failed vote has prolonged a funding lapse affecting Department of Homeland Security agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration and FEMA.
ABC News reported that spring break travelers are facing longer security lines as more than 300 TSA employees have resigned and callouts have doubled since the shutdown began. About 60,000 workers are receiving paychecks of $0, reflecting the direct impact of the DHS funding lapse on TSA operations during a peak travel period.
Delaware Online reported the Senate is scheduled to recess from March 30 to April 10, increasing pressure on lawmakers to resolve the DHS funding lapse. If Congress does not act this month, the shutdown will extend beyond 60 days, prolonging disruptions to TSA staffing and other affected agencies.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy posted on X a letter from Airlines for America urging Congress to fund federal aviation workers during government shutdowns. Duffy said airline and shipping company CEOs are advocating for TSA employees who remain on the job without pay. The letter calls for measures such as the Keep America Flying Act to ensure pay for TSA officers and prevent future disruptions.
Former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson told Fox News that “we are in a heightened threat environment” and called for full funding of DHS and TSA. “Congress needs to fund the department that exists to ensure homeland security,” Johnson said.
