Senate Republicans have refused to pass a $70bn homeland security bill due to a contentious $1bn proposal for security measures tied to Donald Trump's White House ballroom, derailing efforts to restore funding to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and border patrol. The legislation, which also includes a controversial $1.8bn 'anti-weaponization' fund, faces a 1 June deadline set by the president, but lawmakers are leaving Washington for the Memorial Day recess without a deal.
Republican Backlash Over Ballroom Funding
The plan has sparked intense anxiety among congressional Republicans, who fear diverting taxpayer dollars toward Trump's 'East Wing modernization project' amid rising cost-of-living concerns will alienate voters ahead of November's midterm elections. Some Senate Republicans have also raised concerns about a separate $1.776bn fund, announced on Monday, which critics argue is a slush fund to compensate Trump allies after the president and his sons dropped a $10bn lawsuit against the IRS.
Trump continues to defend the ballroom funding, claiming it is for 'national security,' including a drone port and bulletproof glass. 'If they want to spend money securing the White House, I think it would be very much a good expenditure,' he told reporters. When asked about the consequences of Congress not approving the funds, Trump warned, 'Well, the White House won't be a very secure place.'
Other Key Developments
- RFK Jr Fires Preventive Health Leaders: Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr terminated the appointments of two doctors chairing the US Preventive Services Taskforce, which determines free preventive care coverage for millions of Americans.
- EPA to Loosen Refrigerant Rule: The Trump administration plans to relax a Biden-era rule requiring grocery stores and air-conditioning companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cooling equipment, citing lower grocery costs.
- Trump Endorses Spencer Pratt: Trump's support for the reality TV star in the LA mayor's race may benefit Democrats, as Pratt polls second in the primary.
- Screen Time Advisory: Health officials issued an advisory on excessive screen time for children and teens, warning of negative impacts on sleep and mental health.
- Healthcare Fraud Charges: The DOJ announced charges against 15 people in Minnesota for an alleged $90m healthcare scheme.
What Else Happened Today
The US imposed strict restrictions on travelers exposed to dual Ebola and hantavirus outbreaks, sparking legal concerns. Body-camera footage showed immigration officers stopping a van of farm workers in Oregon, smashing windows and using facial recognition. Democrats released an autopsy of their 2024 election defeat after backlash over withholding it. DHS issued a 'Be on the Lookout' alert for a comedian whose satire of immigration enforcement went viral. The IEA warned oil markets will enter the 'red zone' by July-August due to dwindling stocks and Middle East export shortages.
