95.3 MNC: Walberg urges Democrats to end DHS shutdown amid security concerns

U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg is calling on Senate Democrats to pass funding for the Department of Homeland Security, warning that the agency’s shutdown threatens national security.

Walberg said the funding lapse comes at a time of heightened global tensions, including ongoing conflict with Iran, and argued the department needs full resources to protect the country.

House Republicans passed a full-year DHS funding bill on January 22 after bipartisan negotiations in the House Appropriations Committee. However, Senate Democrats voted against the measure on February 12.

The Department of Homeland Security shut down on February 14, affecting agencies including FEMA, the Coast Guard, the Secret Service, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Walberg urged Democrats to support what he described as bipartisan funding to ensure DHS can continue its mission of protecting the homeland.