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DHS Shutdown Enters Second Week, Senator Blames Democrats

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. enters-second-week-senator-blames-democrats.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 21:39 GMT by Fox 11 News
      Locales: Washington, D.C., UNITED STATES

SALT LAKE CITY-- The partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) entered its second week today, Friday, February 20th, 2026, with Utah Senator Mike Leavitt intensifying his criticism of Democratic lawmakers, blaming them squarely for the escalating crisis. Approximately 30% of the DHS workforce - exceeding 40,000 employees - remain out of work without pay, significantly impacting critical national security functions and creating a growing hardship for federal employees and, increasingly, the American public.

The shutdown is primarily affecting agencies vital to national security and emergency response. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is operating with a reduced staff, leading to longer wait times at airports and raising concerns about potential security vulnerabilities. The Coast Guard, responsible for maritime safety and security, is also feeling the strain, with reduced patrols and response capabilities. Perhaps most concerning is the impact on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is tasked with responding to natural disasters and other emergencies - a critical function, particularly as the nation heads into peak severe weather season.

"This is because of the policies and actions of Democrats," Senator Leavitt stated firmly in a press conference held this morning. "They are holding our national security hostage over partisan disagreements. This is simply not acceptable." He alleges that Democrats are prioritizing political maneuvering over the safety and security of the nation, refusing to engage in meaningful negotiations to resolve the budget impasse.

When pressed for specifics on what compromises he and his colleagues have offered, Leavitt asserted that Republicans have been "more than reasonable," offering various proposals that were "immediately rejected" by Democratic leaders. "We've tried everything," he claimed. "They won't budge. They're demanding policies that are fiscally irresponsible and weaken our border security."

The core of the dispute lies in differing approaches to border security. Republicans are pushing for increased funding for border wall construction and stricter enforcement measures, while Democrats advocate for a more comprehensive approach that includes investments in technology, personnel, and addressing the root causes of migration. The disagreement isn't simply about funding levels, but a fundamental ideological clash over how best to secure the border. Democrats argue that a wall is an ineffective and expensive solution, and that focusing on humanitarian aid and addressing economic instability in Central America would be more effective in the long run.

Senator Chuck Schumer, a key figure in the Democratic negotiations, has faced mounting criticism from Republicans for his perceived intransigence. Critics point to his public statements as evidence that he is unwilling to compromise. Requests for comment from Senator Schumer's office have gone unanswered, further fueling the perception of a communication breakdown. However, sources within the Democratic caucus suggest that Republicans have also hardened their positions, making a resolution increasingly difficult.

The economic consequences of the shutdown are also beginning to mount. Airport delays are disrupting travel plans and impacting the tourism industry. The reduced capacity of the Coast Guard could lead to increased smuggling and illegal activity along the nation's waterways. And the uncertainty surrounding FEMA's ability to respond to emergencies is creating anxiety in communities across the country.

Analysts predict that if the shutdown continues for much longer, it could have a significant impact on the broader economy. Experts from the Brookings Institute estimate that each week of the shutdown costs the US economy billions of dollars. Furthermore, the reputational damage to the United States as a reliable partner on the world stage could be long-lasting.

Beyond the immediate impacts, the shutdown raises serious questions about the state of political discourse in Washington. The increasing polarization and unwillingness to compromise are paralyzing the government and preventing it from addressing critical issues. Observers are expressing concerns that this shutdown is a harbinger of more gridlock and dysfunction to come, potentially leading to more frequent and prolonged government shutdowns in the future.

With no immediate resolution in sight, the future remains uncertain. The American public is left to bear the brunt of the political battle, and the safety and security of the nation hang in the balance. The question now is whether both sides can find a way to put aside their differences and prioritize the needs of the country before the situation deteriorates further.