The U.S. Senate has approved a $70 billion funding package for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol, ensuring these agencies are funded through the end of President Donald Trump’s term. The bill passed with a 52-47 vote early Friday morning, following intense debates over a separate $1.776 billion settlement fund related to Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS.

Settlement Fund Controversy

The settlement fund, which has been a point of contention, was intended for Trump’s political allies who claim political persecution. Despite acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s assurance that the fund would not proceed, Republican senators faced internal divisions. Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy proposed an amendment to redirect the fund to law enforcement officers injured during the January 6 Capitol breach, but it was defeated.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on immigration enforcement, despite the distractions caused by the settlement fund debate. Thune criticized the fund as part of a settlement resolving Trump’s IRS lawsuit over leaked tax returns, which has stirred discontent among GOP members.

Republican Unity Tested

Efforts to block the settlement fund through legislation were led by a group of Republican senators, despite Blanche’s comments. Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina proposed another amendment to ban the fund and redirect the money to an anti-fraud fund at the Department of Justice, but it was also defeated.

Democrats attempted to introduce amendments to ban payments to January 6 defendants who injured law enforcement officers, but these efforts were also rejected. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., criticized the Republicans for relying on assurances from Trump’s personal legal team rather than legislative action.

Funding Secured for ICE and Border Patrol

The passage of the bill ends a blockade by Democrats, who had demanded policy changes following fatal shootings by federal agents. The funding ensures ICE and Border Patrol operations continue, despite previous lapses due to stalled negotiations on immigration enforcement tactics.

Republicans used procedural maneuvers to bypass the filibuster, passing the bill without Democratic support. The legislation faced delays due to various obstacles, including a proposed $1 billion for White House security and Trump’s ballroom, which was eventually removed from the bill.

Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.