In the wake of a security breach during the White House Correspondents' Dinner, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called on Congress Monday to urgently fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The call comes after a gunman attempted to infiltrate the event, which was attended by top government officials including President Donald Trump.

The Trump administration has consistently criticized Congressional Democrats for stalling DHS funding, emphasizing that funding the department should be seen as a national emergency. “Democrats need to do what President Trump has been urging for 73 days—fund DHS,” Leavitt stated during a press briefing. She stressed that every Congress member should prioritize national security over party politics.

The incident on Saturday has intensified existing demands from Republicans and Trump administration officials to ensure the DHS is adequately funded. The DHS, which oversees the Secret Service—the agency responsible for event security—faces increased demand ahead of several major upcoming events. Leavitt highlighted the World Cup, America 250 celebrations, the 2028 Olympics, and the presidential election as key events that require robust security preparations.

Funding disputes have persisted, with Democrats pushing for stricter regulations on immigration enforcement as part of the DHS budget. The deadlock has entered its third month, creating financial strain within DHS. Secretary Markwayne Mullin alerted earlier this month that without a resolution, DHS could exhaust its funds to pay salaries by early May.

In response, President Trump has directed Republicans to use the budget reconciliation process to secure funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol by June 1. A bipartisan measure to support the remainder of DHS operations and conclude the ongoing shutdown is expected to follow.

Efforts by Republican leadership to rally support for a Senate budget plan that meets these requirements are ongoing. Some House Republicans believe that the recent shooting will motivate fellow lawmakers to set aside their reservations and back the budget plan, particularly in light of heightened national security concerns.

Leavitt commended the rapid response of federal law enforcement during the attack. The Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies swiftly neutralized the threat, ensuring the safety of President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, First Lady Melania Trump, and other dignitaries.

Nevertheless, the ease with which the gunman breached security has sparked a comprehensive review of security protocols for future events. The investigation continues to address how the assailant was able to get so close to key figures and with armament, underscoring the critical need for robust funding and strategic oversight of the DHS.