Temporary Deal Reached, US One Step Away from Shutdown
US President Donald Trump and Senate Democrats reached a temporary agreement to avert a federal government shutdown, amid heated negotiations over immigration restrictions that have sparked nationwide protests. Trump called the deal "locked in" and urged both sides to support it.
One key point, according to Democratic staff, is temporary funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for two weeks. The goal is to give both sides time to continue discussing a major government funding package without triggering a shutdown.
In the Senate, Democratic and Republican leaders tested internal support Thursday night, while keeping lines of communication with the White House open. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer pressed Republicans to exclude long-term DHS funding from the massive spending bill needed to keep the government running after Friday.
These negotiations have become increasingly sensitive after the killing of two Americans in Minneapolis this month, allegedly involving federal agents, sparked calls for restrictions on immigration enforcement operations. Democrats have proposed revisions such as banning officers from wearing masks, mandating body cameras, and requiring warrants before entering homes—and even pushing for an end to illegal immigrant arrests.
The problem is, the House passed a major spending bill last week and then went on recess until Monday. Any changes would require a re-vote—and House Speaker Mike Johnson is not expected to recall members early. This means that even if a deal is reached in the Senate, the risk of a "short shutdown" remains. At the same time, Trump has signaled a shift in his deportation strategy, as his immigration crackdown has begun to look less popular in opinion polls and could become a liability for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections. (alg)
Source: Newsmaker.id
