The Daily Punch Why the DHS shutdown could drag on
Feb 13, 2026
A looming Department of Homeland Security shutdown and why it might not end quickly. Travel plans and rules for members who could be pulled back if a deal appears. Behind-the-scenes negotiation moves between the White House and Senate Democrats. Contentious demands around ISIS, ICE politics, and possible compromise areas like body cameras and use-of-force rules.
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Shutdown Likely Due To Absences
- A DHS shutdown is likely because Congress is geographically scattered and not positioned to finalize a deal quickly.
- Jake Sherman highlights travel and absence from DC as a key reason talks will stall and prolong the shutdown.
Canceled Official Travel Scatters Lawmakers
- Mike Johnson canceled official travel so members must pay their own way, scattering lawmakers to events like Munich and possibly the Milan Olympics.
- Sherman uses this travel cancellation as a vivid example of why rapid returns to DC are unlikely.
Democrats' Limited Concession Space
- Senate Democrats face tight constraints because they cannot concede much on the ISIS-related demands.
- Sherman notes Democrats have been unified and pressure from their base makes compromise limited.