The Fox News Rundown

Immigration Battle Triggers Another Shutdown, Shakes Up Midterms

Feb 16, 2026
Michael Whatley, former RNC chair and Republican Senate candidate from North Carolina focused on immigration and border security. He discusses the DHS funding lapse and its effects on TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard. He also outlines economic priorities like tax and trade policies and talks campaign strategy and the impact of national endorsements.
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ADVICE

Negotiate, Don't Shut Down

  • Democrats should return to the negotiating table instead of using shutdowns as leverage, Michael Whatley argues.
  • He urges resolving policy conflicts through talks rather than by shutting down agencies and risking public safety.
ANECDOTE

Border Tour: Transformation Claims

  • Michael Whatley recounts touring the border and seeing a 'stunning transformation' under Trump administration policies.
  • He credits Border Patrol changes with reducing migrant crime and fentanyl deaths in North Carolina.
ADVICE

Policy Mix To Lower Costs

  • Change tax, trade, and regulatory policies to spur jobs, wages, and lower prices, Whatley says.
  • Focus on manufacturers, small businesses, and farmers to ease housing and grocery affordability.
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