Senator Marshall Voices Frustration Over DHS Funding Stalemate

As discussions continue in Washington over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall says negotiations have stalled—and he’s placing the blame on a lack of cooperation.

During a virtual press conference, Marshall said he is “as frustrated as you are,” pointing to what he described as delays from Democrats in responding to proposals.

“It took them 18 days to respond to President Trump’s last offer,” Marshall said. “And even then… Democrat appropriators refused to sit down and talk.”

According to Marshall, negotiations have now narrowed down to two key issues: whether ICE agents should be required to remove face coverings, and how administrative warrants are used in enforcement.

On the issue of masking, Marshall said while he supports better identification for officers, he believes removing face coverings could put agents and their families in danger.

“When people identify who they are… their children and their spouses’ lives are literally threatened,” he said. “So I cannot ask ICE officers to not wear a mask right now—that’s the reality of where we live.”

Marshall also addressed concerns surrounding administrative warrants, emphasizing the legal distinction between them and judicial warrants.

“A judicial warrant allows law enforcement to go into your house,” he explained. “An administrative warrant does not allow you to invade someone’s privacy.”

Beyond policy disagreements, Marshall warned that continued delays in funding could have real-world consequences. He pointed to reported staffing shortages at airports, saying fewer Transportation Security Administration agents are showing up for work.

“I saw some airports where only half of the TSA officers showed up,” Marshall said. “At least 10 percent of them are staying home on a regular basis.”

He added that other agencies tied to DHS funding—including FEMA and the Coast Guard—could also be impacted, along with programs like fire training centers.

Marshall argued that the situation ultimately comes down to priorities.

“The Democrats have chosen politics over the safety of Americans,” he said. “And they’re still refusing to sit down and have this conversation.”

Despite the ongoing stalemate, Marshall said he hopes negotiations will move forward, stressing the importance of maintaining national security and supporting agencies that rely on DHS funding.