FILE - Senate Majority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer of N.Y., talks with reporters after meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House, Oct. 31, 2023, in Washington. The Senate is heading for a vote on a temporary government funding package as lawmakers sought to keep the holiday season free from any suspense over a government shutdown. Senators were trying to speed forward on the funding package on Wednesday. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Share and Follow


(NewsNation) — As House representatives head back to their respective districts for the holiday recess, the Senate remains in Washington, trying to hammer out a deal on Ukraine funding and border security.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is keeping the Senate in town to strike an aid deal on Ukraine before funding runs out.

“To my Republican colleagues who have said action on the border is urgent, let’s keep working to find a solution instead of rushing for the exits. If Republicans are serious about getting something done, they should not be so eager to go home. This may be our last best chance to get this legislation done,” Schumer said.

Republicans said they would block the plan unless it includes support for the southern border to heighten security amid a historic immigration crisis.

The senators will work through the weekend and on Monday before a possible vote next week. Schumer said the chamber wants to strike a deal before the Christmas holiday.

Democrats hope to secure tens of billions of dollars in aid for Ukraine while Republicans say they want to see big changes along the border in exchange, including raising the bar for asylum standards to stay in the U.S. as well as expanding expedited removals.

“The hardest issues, you always save for last. We are at those difficult issues at this point,” Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., said. “They’re not difficult for me because I have a sense of why wouldn’t we try to secure the border and have an orderly process. Why would we intentionally allow thousands of people every single day to be released in the country?”

On the other side of Capitol Hill, the House has adjourned for the year.

House Speaker Mike Johnson could call lawmakers back if a deal is reached, but it is all dependent on whether or not a package is passed in the Senate.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Texas rep defends vote against emergency alert bill amid floods

Texas representative explains why he voted against emergency alert legislation during floods

() A Texas state representative defended his vote against a $500 million…
Alex Cooper booed by Cubs fans after seventh-inning stretch performance

Cubs fans boo Alex Cooper during seventh-inning show

At least the Cubs were up 11-0 against the Cardinals when Alex…
City is grinding to a halt as ICE send migrant workers into hiding

ICE causing migrant workers to hide, resulting in city slowdown

ICE raids across Los Angeles have driven the migrant workforce into hiding, sparking…
Gunman killed after ambushing Border Patrol agents outside McAllen, Texas office

Attacker shot and killed by Border Patrol agents outside McAllen, Texas office

A shooter armed with a rifle and tactical gear ambushed border agents…
Texas officials proposed updating warning systems before floods

Texas officials suggest improving warning systems for floods

() A former Kerry County sheriff pushed for more updated warning systems prior…
Father outraged after discovering daughter's alleged killer should have been behind bars years ago

Father outraged after discovering daughter’s alleged killer should have been behind bars years ago

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! An already grieving father…
Trump administration's crackdown on pro-Palestinian campus activists faces federal trial

Federal trial looms for crackdown on pro-Palestinian campus activists by Trump administration

BOSTON (AP) A federal bench trial begins Monday over a lawsuit that…
Why Taylor Swift snubbed Kamala Harris on the campaign trail

Taylor Swift’s decision not to support Kamala Harris during the election campaign

Despite speculation and growing excitement about the possibility of her appearing alongside…