Trump cheers 'unified' GOP on DHS, torches Dems' 'open borders' as shutdown drags on

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Thursday, April 2, praised Republican lawmakers for what he described as a unified effort to advance funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), while sharply criticizing Democrats over immigration policy.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump signaled plans to take executive action to ensure DHS employees are paid amid an ongoing funding standoff.

His remarks come as Congress remains divided over how to move forward with legislation to reopen and fund key parts of the department. 

Trump praises GOP unity and criticizes Democrats on immigration

In his post, Trump thanked Republican leadership and lawmakers for their efforts, highlighting what he described as party unity in advancing a funding strategy.

“Thank you to all of our Great Congressional Republicans, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Leader John Thune, for their work this week. Republicans are UNIFIED, and moving forward on a plan that will reload funding for our FANTASTIC Border Patrol and Immigration Enforcement Officers,” Trump wrote.

He also criticized Democrats’ approach to immigration policy, stating, “Because the Democrats are fully and 100% committed to the Radical Left Policy of Open Borders and Zero Immigration Enforcement (which will hopefully cost them dearly in the Midterms!), allowing Criminals of all types into our Country, totally unchecked and unvetted…”

Trump further indicated that he would act to address pay concerns within DHS, adding, “I will soon sign an order to pay ALL of the incredible employees at the Department of Homeland Security.” 

He continued by saying, “Their families have suffered far too long at the hands of the Extreme Liberal ‘Leaders’, 'Cryin' Chuck Schumer and Hakeem ‘High Tax’ Jeffries.”

The president concluded by expressing support for DHS personnel, stating, “Nevertheless, help is on the way for our Brave and Patriotic Public Servants who have continued to work hard and do their part to protect and defend our Country.”

Congress weighs DHS funding options amid ongoing impasse

Trump’s remarks came as lawmakers continued to debate how to fund DHS following a partial shutdown affecting some of its operations.

Earlier Thursday, the president reiterated his plan to ensure compensation for DHS staff, saying, “I will soon sign an order to pay ALL of the incredible employees at the Department of Homeland Security,” though the source of funding was not immediately clear.

Some DHS personnel, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and active-duty Coast Guard members, are already receiving pay.

Trump also signed an executive order last week to ensure Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents are compensated during the funding lapse.

On Capitol Hill, the Senate took an initial step toward funding most of DHS, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune advancing a bipartisan measure agreed upon the previous week.

The proposal would fund the bulk of the department but exclude ICE and parts of CBP. However, the House did not act on the bill during a brief pro forma session, delaying progress until lawmakers return from recess.

House Speaker Mike Johnson opted against advancing the Senate proposal, instead proposing a temporary measure to fund the entire department.

With both chambers unable to reach a consensus before recess, the shutdown is expected to continue in the short term.