Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) stated on Fox News’ “Hannity” broadcast on March 25, 2026, that pressure from activists within the Democratic Party may be deterring some senators from supporting measures to reopen the Department of Homeland Security amid the partial shutdown that began February 13, 2026. Fetterman described the shutdown as "fundamentally wrong" and noted its effects on unpaid TSA workers, including airport delays during the spring break travel period and ahead of World Cup preparations. He observed that affected TSA employees are union government workers who would typically align with Democratic priorities. (Cited source: https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/fetterman-says-some-democrats-possibly-afraid-reopen-dhs-due-party-activists)

Fetterman has been the sole Democrat to vote with Republicans in attempts to advance DHS funding legislation, including a failed 54-46 vote on March 25. Senate Democrats responded with a counterproposal focused on ICE reforms, including requirements for judicial warrants before entering private property, restrictions on enforcement near schools, hospitals, churches, and polling places, and mandates for agents to identify themselves. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) described this as a "reasonable, good faith" offer. Republicans have sought to move ICE funding via budget reconciliation and include the SAVE America Act provisions on voter identification and related election measures, which Democrats have opposed, particularly additional restrictions on mail-in voting and measures regarding transgender athletes and procedures for minors. Fetterman has indicated he shares his colleagues' opposition to the latter provisions. Both parties have accused the other of acting in bad faith during negotiations. This reporting draws from the cited secondary source aggregating commentary from The Epoch Times and does not endorse any perspective presented.