Chicago – May 21, 2026
Senate Republicans abruptly left Washington Thursday without voting on a roughly $70 billion immigration enforcement bill, frustrated by a contentious $1.776 billion settlement fund President Donald Trump established to compensate allies who claim political persecution.
The dispute marks a rare split between Trump and his own party. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche met with senators for two hours, but no agreement emerged on fencing in the “anti-weaponization fund”. Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged senators’ concerns about ensuring appropriate safeguards.
Critics within the GOP called the fund problematic. Senator Thom Tillis labeled it “stupid on stilts” and a “payout pot for punks,” arguing taxpayer dollars shouldn’t compensate people convicted of assaulting Capitol Police on January 6. Senator Susan Collins stated the bill is “in real trouble, and it should be”.
Republicans also rejected approximately $1 billion in security funding for Trump’s White House ballroom project. The delay jeopardizes Trump’s self-imposed June 1 deadline for immigration legislation. The Senate adjourned until June 1, with no clear path forward for the reconciliation bill requiring just 50 votes.
