House Advances $70 Billion Immigration Enforcement Funding Measure

On June 9, 2026, the House of Representatives moved closer to approving a $70 billion immigration enforcement and border security funding measure, with a test vote resulting in a 213-211 outcome along party lines. All Democrats present voted against the measure. The Senate had previously passed the bill with a vote of 52-47, with some Republican senators joining Democrats in opposition. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise emphasized the need for full funding for immigration enforcement agencies amid security concerns. Some conservative Republicans initially withheld support for the bill, seeking commitments on legislation related to Trump's executive orders on illegal immigration, but ultimately supported its advancement. House Democrats expressed concerns about the funding, with House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar calling it a 'blank check' for agencies with a history of misconduct. The funding measure aims to bypass Democratic opposition through a partisan budget reconciliation process, allowing Republicans to secure funding through fiscal year 2029.