Government Funding
Senate confirms Markwayne Mullin as homeland security secretary
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The US Senate confirmed Oklahoma Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin as the next secretary of Homeland Security on a 54-45 vote. Mullin replaces Kristi Noem amid a month-long department shutdown and controversy over his past statements. He now faces challenges including resolving the funding impasse, addressing Trump's priorities like the SAVE America Act, and leading agencies like ICE and Border Patrol.
The Trump administration has issued the fifth and final year of Biden-era Title X family planning grants to Planned Parenthood amid legal challenges. White House spokesman Kush Desai confirmed the extension, stating the administration faced significant hurdles in halting the funds. Pro-life leaders expressed strong disappointment over the decision.
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Lawmakers are struggling to reach a deal on funding for the Department of Homeland Security ahead of a Friday deadline, amid disputes over immigration enforcement reforms. A recent House hearing highlighted concerns about ICE practices, including use of force and identification requirements, but yielded little progress. Bipartisan talks continue, though a partial shutdown looms for agencies like the Coast Guard and TSA.