Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) stated on March 25 that activist pressure within the Democratic Party is contributing to the ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), now in its sixth week since funding lapsed on February 13. Appearing on Fox News’ “Hannity,” Fetterman observed that protests such as the “No Kings” rallies have made some senators hesitant to restore funding, as demonstrators push for unachievable demands. He described the shutdown as “fundamentally wrong” and noted its impact on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers operating without pay, causing airport delays during spring break and amid World Cup preparations. Fetterman, the only Democrat to consistently vote with Republicans on DHS funding measures, cast another such vote on March 26 when a bill advanced by Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) failed 54–46, short of the 60 votes required. Democrats countered with a proposal for ICE reforms including judicial warrants for private property entry, restrictions near sensitive locations, and agent identification requirements. Republicans seek to move ICE funding via budget reconciliation and include the SAVE America Act mandating photo ID for voting and proof of citizenship for registration, provisions Democrats oppose along with attached measures on mail-in voting and transgender policies. Fetterman has opposed the shutdown regardless of the party responsible and called for placing the country ahead of partisan interests. Source: https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/fetterman-says-some-democrats-possibly-afraid-reopen-dhs-due-party-activists