Johnson Flips on DHS Funding, Ends Shutdown

0:00On April 2nd, House Speaker Mike Johnson flipped his stance on that Senate deal he called a crap sandwich just days ago, now backing it to end the record DHS shut down. The bill funds most Department of Homeland Security operations through September, but skips immigration and customs enforcement and border patrol. Republicans plan to cover those agencies separately over three years using budget reconciliation, dodging the need for democratic votes. After this week, Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune dropped a joint statement saying they'll push full DHS funding on two tracks, regular, appropriations for the bulk and reconciliation for enforcement arms. This marks a big concession after House Republicans shot down the deal over the weekend. The mess started with a massive immigration sweep in Minnesota, where Department of Homeland Security sent 2,000 agents to Minneapolis, St. Paul. 2 US citizens got killed in the chaos, one during an operation and another at a protest, sparking outrage and democratic demands for reforms like body cameras and no masks for agents.

1:05That led to a nearly two months shutdown after funding lapsed, hitting over 260,000 workers. TSA folks kept screening without pay, causing airport chaos, long lines, and more than 300 resignations, while essential staff like FEMA and Coast Guard pushed through unpaid. Lawmakers reconvened April 14th, but Johnson might speed things up with a special vote needing two-thirds support. Even with Democrats on board to get TSA paid and in the hassle, some House conservatives could still block it, leaving the full resolution hanging in. The balance. I'm Cory with the story, and you've been listening to Entertainment and celebrity news today, AI-powered pop culture coverage.