ICE $1 Billion Over Budget, Could Run Out Next Month

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is facing a severe budget shortfall, already $1 billion over budget with several months remaining in the fiscal year, raising concerns that the agency could run out of funds as soon as next month. This financial strain is largely due to President Donald Trump's aggressive deportation directives, including a demand for ICE to detain 3,000 immigrants daily and expand operations in Democratic-led cities. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed alarm about the rapid spending pace and warned that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), ICE's parent agency, could violate federal law if it continues this trend. To address the shortfall, there is increased pressure on Congress to pass Trump's proposed $75 billion funding package for ICE over five years, although some officials criticize the agency’s fiscal management. Trump may also consider declaring a national emergency to redirect funds from other government sources, a tactic he previously used in 2020 to fund the border wall. Meanwhile, ICE detention facilities are operating over capacity, and arrests have surged, further exacerbating financial and logistical challenges.