From The Hill: Cracks are beginning to show in the Senate GOP’s unity as the Department of Homeland Security shutdown stretches into its 38th day, as some Republicans worry trying to pin the blame on Democrats won’t produce a deal, and could politically boomerang back on their own party.
Images of huge chaotic lines at major airports in Atlanta, Houston, New Orleans and New York City caused by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers calling in sick is rattling Republican senators who don’t see an end in sight given the hard lines taken by both the White House and Senate Democrats during the funding stalemate.
While Republicans feel the shutdown was forced by Democrats, they also know their party owns the White House and both majorities in Congress, and could suffer the blame – particularly amid the war with Iran that is already stoking political controversy.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), suggests splitting the Homeland Security appropriations bill to fund TSA and other agencies immediately, and using budget reconciliation later for increased funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said Cruz’s proposal is gaining momentum in the GOP conference.
“It is something that a lot of us have been talking about,” she said, saying it is a “viable proposal.”
The deal to open parts of DHS could face opposition from President Donald Trump, who has linked it to the SAVE America Act.
“And I don’t think any deal should be made on this until they approve save America,” he told NewsNation’s Hannah Brandt. “Ok, so you have a scoop.”
Read more at The Hill
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