Representative Julie Johnson (D-TX) states that a resolution to the current Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown is contingent upon significant and "prolific" changes to the operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Johnson contends that the administration has yet to propose the necessary reforms to address her concerns regarding ICE's functionality.
The shutdown, which has impacted agencies like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), has been framed by Johnson as a consequence of Republican actions. She has expressed a desire for resolution but insists that "we have to see some pretty prolific changes in how ICE functions." Johnson also indicated a reluctance to fund programs she "don’t believe in," suggesting a fundamental disagreement with current ICE operations.
Calls for "Whole-Scale Revamping"
Earlier in March, Johnson called for a "whole-scale revamping of DHS’s mission," questioning the agency's purpose and operations. She cited concerns about "roaming patrols" that she believes engage in "racial profiling" and abuse citizens' constitutional protections. Johnson has also accused ICE of carrying out acts that she described as "terroristic attacks" on citizens, referencing a video montage shown during a House Committee on Homeland Security hearing that depicted ICE agents using pepper spray and physical force.
Read More: Universities Add New Courses on Politics and Ethics for Students
Oversight and Accountability
The DHS shutdown has also raised questions about the functioning of internal oversight offices. Reports indicate that the Office of Detention Oversight was not operational during the shutdown, and there are unanswered questions about the status of the Office of Immigration Detention Ombudsman and the Civil Rights and Civil Liberties office. Johnson has actively introduced legislation aimed at enhancing oversight, including the DHS Oversight and Accountability Act. She also previously voted against a bill to fund ICE and DHS.
Republican Counterpoint
Some perspectives suggest that Republicans are using the shutdown to push for reforms such as the abolition of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) or strengthened Second Amendment protections. Concerns have been raised that Johnson's calls for "prolific changes" could translate into increased funding for ATF operations or expanded gun ban measures, which are viewed as a threat to constitutional rights. These critics argue that Republicans are holding out against what they perceive as a "bloated spending bill" containing Democratic priorities, and that the impasse highlights a perceived hypocrisy in Democrats' reactions to the shutdown.
Read More: DHS Shutdown Stops Immigrant Families Checking Detention Centers Since January 2024
Background
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has experienced a partial shutdown, leading to furloughs and non-essential employees being placed on leave without pay. This situation has created disruptions across various components of the department, including border security and law enforcement functions. The ongoing negotiations between political parties center on differing priorities for funding and operational mandates within the department. Representative Julie Johnson, a Democrat from Texas and Vice Ranking Member on the House Homeland Security Committee, has been a vocal critic of current DHS and ICE operations, advocating for substantial reform.
