DHS Shutdown Update

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) remains shut down as Congressional Democrats and the White House continue to negotiate over funding. The agency has been closed since the weekend, with no end in sight.

The latest development in the standoff came on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, when Democrats sent a counteroffer to the White House. The proposal aims to address the White House's concerns while also ensuring the continued operation of the DHS.

The counteroffer includes a compromise on border security measures, which have been a major point of contention between the two sides. Democrats have agreed to increase funding for border security, but only if the White House agrees to drop its demand for a border wall.

The White House has yet to respond to the counteroffer, and it remains unclear whether the two sides will be able to reach a deal. The shutdown has already caused significant disruptions to the DHS's operations, and if it continues, it could have serious consequences for national security.

The situation is being closely watched by lawmakers and the public, who are eager to see a resolution to the standoff.

Sources

[1] Democrats send Trump DHS funding counteroffer as agency shutdown grinds on