Senate Republicans have removed $1 billion in Secret Service security funding for the White House and President Donald Trump’s planned East Wing ballroom from the immigration enforcement bill, according to new legislative text released on Wednesday. This decision follows Republican concerns regarding the perception of taxpayers covering the $220 million cost for ballroom security, as well as a ruling from the Senate parliamentarian that the funding did not adhere to reconciliation rules.
The updated text, released by the Senate Judiciary Committee ahead of a procedural vote, also eliminated additional funding for the Justice Department. The immigration measure, known as the SECURE America Act, focuses on funding federal immigration agencies and the Department of Homeland Security through 2029, after Democrats previously blocked funding for these agencies in response to Trump's deportation policies.
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) stated that the bill aims to prevent DHS funding from being influenced by what he described as the Democrats' agenda. He criticized Democrats for allegedly undermining the appropriations process, claiming they wish to reopen the southern border and defund federal law enforcement, which he argues jeopardizes public safety. Republicans may proceed to final passage of the bill as soon as Thursday, following a session for amendments and potential changes that GOP senators seek, including provisions regarding Trump's proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund.
