In a strategic move that could end the Department of Homeland Security’s 76-day shutdown, House Republican leaders are gearing up to pass a funding bill that has already won Senate approval. This legislation aims to finance all sectors of the DHS, with the exception of its immigration enforcement agencies.

Under the leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson, discussions are underway with conference members who have delayed the bill's passage. These members are holding out for a separate package that would specifically fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol. Despite the Senate's approval of the partial funding measure in March, House GOP leaders have faced resistance within their ranks, bowing to the holdouts for more than a month.

The pressure has mounted as the White House and certain House Republicans urge Johnson to push the bill through before the upcoming weeklong congressional recess. House Appropriations Chair Tom Cole of Oklahoma and House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain of Michigan confirmed that efforts are being made to get the bill signed by President Donald Trump as early as Thursday.

Johnson and Cole have considered modifying the bill to exclude explicit language about the non-funding of ICE and Border Patrol. However, such amendments would necessitate another Senate review rather than direct presidential approval.

As the clock ticks closer to the recess, Speaker Johnson faces a crucial decision: alter the bill or expedite its passage without changes. Both options require a fast-track process, needing a two-thirds majority vote. As discussions continue behind closed doors, the resolution to this standoff remains pivotal not just for the affected agencies, but for the overall security posture of the nation.