Thune navigates immigration bill landmines from DOJ lawfare fund Senate GOP leaders are attempting to resolve internal disagreements over a proposed $1.776 billion anti-weaponization fund, which some Republicans want blocked to ensure the passage of their immigration enforcement bill. Amendments to block the fund could jeopardize the bill’s party-line approval. Democrats plan to use amendment votes to highlight Republican priorities, while assurances from the Trump administration about permanently nixing the fund have been insufficient for some.

• Senate GOP leaders are trying to address Republican concerns about a proposed $1.776 billion anti-weaponization fund.
• This fund threatens the passage of the party’s immigration enforcement bill.
• Several Republicans want explicit language to prevent the fund’s creation, despite conflicting messages from the administration.
• Altering the bill to block the fund could risk its passage along party lines.
• Amendments are expected during a marathon voting session known as vote-a-rama.
• Some Republican senators, including Thom Tillis, have stated they will oppose the bill unless the DOJ fund is blocked.
• Republican leaders warn that amendments related to the fund could lead to its failure under reconciliation rules.
• Democrats aim to make amendment votes politically difficult for Republicans, focusing on the fund and other controversial items.
• Assurances that the fund will be permanently canceled have not satisfied all Republicans, partly due to President Trump’s own uncertainty.
• The fund is currently on hold by a federal judge.
• Similar concerns about the fund’s creation exist among some House Republicans.