Statement from Congressman Adam Smith on Today’s Vote Against Federal Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Adam Smith (D-Wash.) released the following statement after voting against the Senate-passed funding package that includes two-weeks of funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

"Today, I voted against the Senate Amendments to H.R. 7148. Congress has a constitutional responsibility to fund the government that is both effective and accountable. I recognize that this legislation contains important investments and reflects bipartisan work to keep the government operating. I understand why some of my colleagues chose to support it and I share their goal of ensuring continuity of essential federal services. However, as this funding bill is written, it asks Congress to overlook serious concerns in how certain authorities are exercised, especially within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

"I am gravely concerned by the DHS and ICE provisions included in this funding package. The two-week buffer to renegotiate DHS funding is insufficient and too long of a delay. We need immediate guardrails and stopgap measures to curtail ICE. The behavior from ICE in Minnesota, Los Angeles, Chicago and across the country does not represent responsible governance. It is lawless behavior that puts communities at risk and undermines trust in government itself.

"I am ready to support funding that upholds the rule of law, respects constitutional limits, treats individuals with dignity, and serves the public interest. Until this administration changes course and demonstrates a commitment to lawful, accountable governance, I will not support funding that enables continued abuse and overreach."

###