Ruthless Podcast Why Democrats Won’t Take Yes for an Answer on DHS funding
Mar 26, 2026
Senator Pete Ricketts, former Nebraska governor and current U.S. senator, joins to discuss DHS funding fights and national security risks. He covers Senate negotiations, TSA and cybersecurity furlough impacts, Democratic party discipline and election tactics in Nebraska. Also touches on foreign policy effects on U.S. markets and everyday economic pressures.
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Schumer's Political Fear Drives DHS Shutdown
- Democrats are prolonging the DHS shutdown largely due to internal political fear, not policy necessity.
- Josh Holmes argues Chuck Schumer fears his progressive base and is using shutdown chaos to avoid losing his leadership job, causing TSA lines and furloughs.
Defunding ICE Is Largely Political Theater
- Some Democrats publicly call to defund ICE while ICE already had significant appropriations left over.
- The hosts note ICE received a large funding increase and had roughly $65 billion remaining, making 'defunding' largely theatrical.
Use Airport Pain Points In GOP Messaging
- Republicans should highlight pain caused by the shutdown and run targeted ads at affected locations like airports.
- Josh Holmes urges GOP voters to publicize TSA lines and press senators like John Ossoff to act or remove Schumer.