Horsford Votes Against DHS Funding Bill

Congressman Steven Horsford voted against the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026, citing concerns that the legislation would expand mass deportation policies and contribute to what he described as a pattern of violence and lack of accountability within immigration enforcement.

The bill increases funding for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, with congressional documents indicating over $18 billion earmarked for CBP operations. Funding will support activities including transportation of unaccompanied migrant minors, air and marine law enforcement assistance, emergency response efforts, and the purchase and maintenance of vehicles, aircraft, marine vessels, and drones.

Horsford mentioned that the proposal also expands Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations by hiring new agents, increasing detention capacity, improving enforcement infrastructure, adding vehicles, and providing bonuses. He argued the bill effectively doubles ICE’s size without adequate safeguards, transparency, or oversight in local communities.

While Horsford said he supports public servants at agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, he contends the measure grants excessive, unchecked authority. He criticized Republicans for rejecting provisions he says would establish accountability, including warrant requirements, body-worn cameras, limits on face coverings, enforceable use-of-force standards, and explicit protections against the detention or deportation of U.S. citizens.

The House passed the DHS funding bill Thursday by a 220–207 vote, advancing final spending measures ahead of the Jan. 30 deadline to avoid a partial government shutdown.