Congressman Harrigan Votes to Ensure Pay for Homeland Security Personnel During Shutdown

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.-Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted in favor of H.R. 8029, the Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act of 2026, legislation to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security and ensure frontline personnel are paid during the ongoing government shutdown.

"Our homeland defenders should never be forced to work without pay because Democrats want to play politics with our national security," said Congressman Harrigan. "Border Patrol agents, TSA officers, Coast Guardsmen, and Secret Service personnel show up every day to protect this country. This bill ensures they are paid and that the safety of the American people is not held hostage."

The Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act guarantees pay for DHS personnel and restores operational stability across critical missions, including border security, aviation safety, disaster response, and protection of national leaders. The legislation comes after Senate Democrats walked away from a negotiated deal, triggering a shutdown that has already disrupted travel, strained public safety, and caused significant economic loss.

Following House passage, the bill now moves to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan urged swift action to pass the legislation and ensure homeland defenders are treated like the essential personnel they are, not political pawns.