The Senate advanced a Republican-led budget resolution on Tuesday that paves the way for up to $70 billion in funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Border Patrol without Democratic support.

Lawmakers approved the motion to proceed by a 52-46 vote along party lines, the first step in the budget reconciliation process that allows passage with a simple majority and bypasses the 60-vote filibuster threshold. Senate Budget Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who introduced the measure, said Republicans must act quickly to fully fund the agencies amid threats to national security.

The resolution directs the Judiciary and Homeland Security committees to draft legislation providing the funding for about 3.5 years, through fiscal year 2029, and the remainder of President Donald Trump's term. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., expressed regret that Democrats forced this partisan path, noting that appropriations should be bipartisan but emphasizing the need to fund vital homeland security functions.

This move addresses a partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security that began February 14, 2026, now exceeding nine weeks and marking the longest in U.S. history. Democrats have blocked funding for ICE and Border Patrol since mid-February, demanding policy reforms such as better officer identification, judicial warrants, and accountability measures following the fatal shootings of two protesters by federal agents in Minneapolis in January.

In late March, the Senate unanimously passed a measure funding most DHS components, including the Transportation Security Administration, Coast Guard, and Federal Emergency Management Agency, but excluding ICE and Border Patrol. House Republicans initially rejected that bill, opting for short-term measures, but leaders now pursue a two-track approach: regular appropriations for the rest of DHS and reconciliation for immigration enforcement.

President Trump has issued temporary executive orders to cover some employee salaries, but those are set to expire. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., called the effort a partisan sideshow that funds enforcement without restraints.

Next steps include a vote-a-rama for amendments later this week, with Republicans aiming for final passage by May 1. House Speaker Mike Johnson has coordinated with Thune, though some House Republicans want to delay broader DHS funding until reconciliation advances. Potential amendments could add items like voting reforms or economic aid, complicating the process.