The U.S. Senate has approved a $70 billion funding bill for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol, marking a significant step in supporting immigration enforcement through the end of President Donald Trump’s term. The decision came after extensive debates over a contentious $1.776 billion settlement fund associated with Trump.

Settlement Fund Controversy

The bill passed with a 52-47 vote, following attempts by both Democrats and some Republicans to add amendments that would permanently ban the settlement fund. This fund, part of a settlement resolving Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS, has been criticized for potentially compensating Trump allies who claim political persecution.

Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy proposed redirecting the fund’s payments to law enforcement officers injured during the January 6 Capitol breach. However, this amendment was defeated, reflecting the GOP’s internal struggle over the fund’s future.

Republican Unity Tested

Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized the importance of focusing on immigration enforcement, despite the settlement fund’s divisive nature. Thune, along with other GOP leaders, urged colleagues to avoid complicating the bill’s passage with additional provisions.

Despite Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s assurance that the settlement fund would not proceed, some Republicans remained concerned about its potential use. Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina argued for codifying the fund’s inoperability to protect GOP members from political fallout.

Democratic Opposition and ICE Funding

Democrats have consistently opposed the bill, demanding changes to federal immigration policies, including better identification for officers and increased use of judicial warrants. The funding for ICE and Border Patrol had been delayed since early this year due to these demands and the aftermath of federal agents’ actions in Minneapolis.

The Senate’s approval of the bill ends a months-long blockade by Democrats, who had previously agreed to separate the Homeland Security funding from a larger spending measure. The bill’s passage represents a victory for Republicans seeking to prioritize immigration enforcement in an election year.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.