Mullin sworn in as DHS secretary as Republicans pitch new funding offer
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Mullin was sworn in as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), replacing the prior acting leadership.
- It has been reported that House Republicans are proposing a short-term funding compromise to reopen most DHS operations but would exclude Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
- The funding fight has coincided with chaotic scenes at US airports and continued service disruptions across immigration-related agencies.
- If enacted, the proposal could pause some enforcement activities while leaving travel security and border operations funded — with direct impacts on visa processing, asylum cases and people in removal proceedings.
What happened
Kevin Mullin was sworn in as DHS secretary as Republicans presented a new funding offer to end the partial DHS shutdown, it has been reported. The reported proposal would restore funding for many DHS components while explicitly excluding ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) from the measure. The funding dispute has unfolded amid reports of chaotic scenes at airports and continuing operational strain across the department’s agencies.
Which DHS functions are affected — explained
DHS oversees multiple agencies that affect immigrants and travelers: USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) handles petitions, visas and naturalization; CBP (Customs and Border Protection) manages ports of entry and border processing; TSA (Transportation Security Administration) secures aviation; ICE conducts interior enforcement and removals. A funding deal that excludes ICE would be unusual because Congress typically funds the department as a whole; excluding one enforcement component could limit detentions and removals even as border and aviation operations remain funded.
What this means for migrants, visa applicants and travelers
For people in the immigration system, the practical consequences are immediate. USCIS processing times and in-person services have already seen delays during the lapse in funding; asylum seekers and those in removal proceedings face continued uncertainty about enforcement outcomes; travelers may still face airport disruptions even if TSA is funded. Legal advocates warn that exclusion of ICE could create uneven enforcement that complicates case planning for attorneys and families. If you have an application or court date coming up, expect delays, check USCIS and court notices closely, and consult an attorney about potential impacts on your case.
Political outlook and next steps
Senate leaders and negotiators will need to reconcile the House proposal with funding language acceptable to both chambers and the White House. Even if the new offer passes the House, it must still clear the Senate and be signed into law; until then, DHS components will operate under contingency plans and continuing uncertainty. For immigrants, visa applicants and lawyers, the immediate imperative is to monitor official DHS and USCIS communications, maintain documentation of pending cases, and prepare for possible short-term relief on some services but continued disruption in enforcement and adjudication.
Source: Original Article