Immigration Reform Standoff Continues

Immigration

The countdown continues on whether the Department of Homeland Security will be funded before it runs out of money on February 28, but Republican leaders now find themselves at an impasse after three failed attempts to move a House-approved spending bill in the Senate that contains language blocking the President's immigration reform initiative.  So far, Senate Democrats have held their ground, refusing to go along with anything but a "clean" bill that simply funds the agency.  On Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader McConnell conceded the bill was "clearly stuck in the Senate," and said "the next step is obviously up to the House."  House leaders argue they have already done their part by passing a bill, and some of their members have even suggested letting the agency shut down for a while if that's what it takes.  A pending lawsuit filed against the President's executive action in December by officials from 30 states may offer Republicans an exit strategy, or at least remove some of the immediate pressure.  A ruling is expected within the next week.  If the court enjoins the President's immigration action, it may give Republicans an excuse to drop their demands and pass a clean bill.