Morning Joe Senate agrees to end shutdown for most of DHS
Mar 27, 2026
Jonathan Lemire, White House and Capitol reporter who covers congressional politics. He breaks down the Senate funding deal for much of DHS and the political fallout from airport chaos. Short takes on how TSA pay moves shifted leverage and the polling pain facing Republicans. Quick notes on Iran tensions and economic ripple effects.
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Senate Funds Most Of DHS Excluding ICE
- Senate passed a unanimous-consent measure to fund most of DHS while excluding ICE and Border Patrol.
- The move funds TSA and other DHS components quickly but leaves immigration enforcement funding and future guardrails unresolved.
Trump's TSA Pledge Changed The Leverage
- President Trump announced he'd sign an order to pay TSA, removing political leverage from Republicans.
- That concession triggered Senate unanimous consent and created a new Democratic cudgel: why not have paid agents earlier.
Airport Chaos Forced A Political Breakpoint
- Airport chaos from unpaid TSA staff created visible political damage Republicans couldn't ignore.
- Lengthy lines, security risks, and constituent anger forced lawmakers toward a late resolution before recess.