Ciscomani’s Statement on Partial Government Shutdown Due to DHS Funding Lapse

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Ciscomani released the following statement regarding the impending partial government shutdown, following the expiration of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding at midnight ET tonight, February 13, 2026.

"The American people expect Congress to fund the federal government and keep critical operations running - especially when it comes to our national security. Today, we should not be bracing for another shutdown over Democrat political posturing.

"As Vice Chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I take this responsibility seriously. The House delivered bipartisan full-year funding to prevent this very scenario.

"When Department of Homeland Security funding lapses, the consequences are immediate and real. Men and women who serve our country in the Border Patrol, Customs and Border Protection, Transportation Security Administration and Secret Service will miss paychecks. FEMA disaster response, cybersecurity operations, counterterrorism efforts, and key law enforcement programs will be disrupted. That is not responsible governance.

"Shutting down the government, even a partial shutdown, over policy disagreements means that the American people are used as bargaining chips by Senate Democrats. This is reckless. We can debate priorities - but we must keep the entire government open and fulfill our constitutional duty to fund it."

At midnight tonight, DHS funding will expire, causing the delay or suspension of critical government programs. Congressman Ciscomani urges Senate Democrats to follow through on their responsibilities and provide the House with a DHS funding bill in order for Congress to keep the government fully open.

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