Republicans Bypass Democrats on Border Funding

Senate Republicans advanced a sweeping immigration funding plan early Thursday, approving a budget resolution that paves the way for billions in spending on Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol while bypassing Democratic support.

The measure marks the opening step in the budget reconciliation process, which Republicans are using to move the legislation forward without needing Democratic votes. The plan would allocate more than $70 billion upfront to the agencies, part of a broader proposal totaling around $140 billion through the remainder of President Donald Trump’s term.

Republican leaders framed the move as necessary after Democrats refused to approve funding without significant policy reforms. Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso said border agents require stronger backing, accusing Democrats of obstructing enforcement efforts.

Democrats sharply criticized the proposal, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer arguing that the funding increase ignores economic concerns and prioritizes agencies he said lack public trust.

The vote followed an overnight “vote-a-rama” session in which lawmakers considered dozens of amendments, most of which failed along party lines. Two Republicans, Senators Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski, broke ranks and opposed the budget blueprint.

The process also saw internal GOP tensions, as Senator John Kennedy pushed for broader additions to the package, including election-related measures, though his proposals were ultimately rejected.

The resolution now moves to the House, which must approve the same framework or revise it, a step that could trigger another extended round of Senate voting.