U.S. Senate Fails to Advance Homeland Security Funding Bill

The U.S. Senate was unable to advance a funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security on Thursday, raising concerns about a potential shutdown. According to RTHK, the temporary funding at current levels is set to expire on the 13th of this month, leaving the department at risk of closure. The Senate vote resulted in 52 in favor and 47 against, falling short of the 60 votes needed to move the bill forward. Senate Democrats expressed dissatisfaction with the latest negotiation terms offered by the White House. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer stated that Democrats are clear in their stance and do not support maintaining the status quo regarding current immigration enforcement. With both the Senate and House of Representatives set to recess for several days, U.S. media widely believe that a shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security is almost inevitable. However, Senate Republican Leader John Thune mentioned that if an agreement on the funding bill is reached, senators would be required to return to the Capitol within 24 hours.