Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed strong disapproval of Senate Republicans following their vote to approve a bill that allocates billions of dollars for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The bill saw approval with a 52-47 vote, predominantly following party lines, though Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski from Alaska sided with Democrats in opposition.
“Tonight, Senate Republicans passed a rotten bill that makes their priorities painfully clear: more money for Donald Trump, more power for Donald Trump, and nothing to lower costs for working families,” Schumer commented in a statement. “Republicans refused to permanently outlaw Trump’s $2 billion slush fund, leaving taxpayers to rely on nothing more than a promise from Donald Trump’s personal fixer. That is not accountability. That is a permission slip.”
Despite the growing divide within the GOP, the Senate managed to pass a $70 billion funding package for ICE and border patrol agencies. Schumer accused Republicans of focusing on Trump’s interests rather than those of American families, criticizing their decision to inject funds into Trump’s “personal police force” and protect his “slush fund.”
The Justice Department recently established “The Anti-Weaponization Fund” as part of a settlement. This fund, receiving $1.776 billion from a perpetual appropriation, aims to address claims of weaponization and lawfare.
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche has revealed that the DOJ has not yet operationalized the anti-weaponization fund, as no commissioners or claims have been established. During a congressional hearing, Blanche assured that the DOJ will not proceed with the fund’s plan under current circumstances.
Schumer further criticized Republicans for not eliminating Trump’s contentious $2 billion fund, asserting that their refusal highlights a preference for Trump’s interests over those of working Americans. He accused Republicans of voting against measures to reduce costs for housing, health care, gas, and childcare.
Schumer emphasized the struggle faced by families, pointing out that Senate Republicans prioritize assisting Trump over addressing economic challenges faced by citizens. The ICE and CBP funding package must still pass the House of Representatives before reaching President Donald Trump.