House conservatives are sounding the alarm over a recent deal between President Donald Trump and Senate Democrats that splits Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding from the broader government budget, fearing it weakens their negotiating power.

Under the agreement with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 97% of the federal government is funded through September 30, while DHS funding extends only to February 13. This compromise emerged after Democrats rejected an earlier plan to fund DHS through the end of fiscal year 2026, which had passed the House with mostly Republican support.

The decision to separate DHS funding followed unrest in Minneapolis tied to immigration enforcement, where federal agents fatally shot two U.S. citizens during anti-ICE demonstrations on January 28, 2026. The issue has sparked heated debate among Republicans, with many in the House expressing frustration over what they see as a loss of leverage in upcoming negotiations. Now, as the clock ticks toward mid-February, conservatives worry this deal could force unwanted concessions on immigration enforcement policies

Frustration Mounts Among House GOP Leaders

As reported by Fox News, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) didn’t hide his displeasure, admitting during a Tuesday morning press conference that splitting the funding bills wasn’t his choice. Yet, he pledged to follow the path set by Trump and Schumer, emphasizing party unity. On a private Friday call with lawmakers, Johnson called the compromise frustrating but necessary.

Other House Republicans aren’t so resigned, with some grumbling behind closed doors about Trump negotiating away their upper hand. At a Tuesday morning GOP meeting, frustrations boiled over as members questioned how they’d regain ground in just two weeks. An anonymous House Republican told Fox News Digital, “I don’t think we have any more leverage.”

Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) weighed in on Monday, praising DHS efforts while lamenting the Minneapolis shootings as tragic. He warned, “Trump, I trust his judgment. I’m just saying my gut instinct is… they’ll use the two weeks to demagogue [DHS Secretary] Kristi Noem.”

Minneapolis Unrest Fuels Funding Dispute

The backdrop to this funding fight is the tension in Minneapolis, where federal agents clashed with protesters, resulting in two deaths. Democrats walked away from the earlier DHS funding plan, which included ICE guardrails like body-worn cameras and de-escalation training, citing public outrage over Trump’s immigration policies. That earlier deal had bipartisan elements, but Senate Democrats balked after the fatal encounters escalated local anger.

Now, conservatives see this as a deliberate stall tactic by the left, using emotional public reactions to dodge accountability on border security. Why should law enforcement be hamstrung when they’re up against unprecedented illegal crossings? Norman pointedly noted the irony of mourning losses while ignoring millions who’ve entered unlawfully.

Rep. Mark Harris (R-N.C.) remains cautiously optimistic, hoping Trump stands firm in talks. But others aren’t so sure, with two House Republicans privately doubting a favorable outcome by February 13. One admitted that whatever deal emerges might be unsupportable for hardliners like himself.

Trump’s Strategy: De-escalation or Surrender?

White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson defended the administration’s stance, insisting Trump won’t budge on enforcing immigration law. She criticized Democrats for playing politics with funding, especially as winter storm recovery aid hangs in the balance. It’s a sharp reminder that national security shouldn’t be a bargaining chip for disaster relief.

A senior House Republican acknowledged the tough spot Trump faced, arguing there were no ideal choices with Democrats ready to push for a shutdown. This insider praised the president for taking the high road to cool tensions. It’s leadership, not weakness, to prioritize keeping the government running.

Still, doubts linger about whether Republicans can unify on a DHS plan by the deadline. With Schumer and his allies likely to press for softer immigration enforcement, the next two weeks could test GOP resolve. Will Trump’s deal buy time for a stronger stance, or pave the way for more retreats?

Conservative Leverage at Risk in Negotiations

The clock is ticking, and House conservatives fear they’re already on the back foot. Some worry Democrats will use this brief window to vilify DHS leadership and demand drastic changes, like gutting ICE operations. It’s a scenario that could unravel years of hard-fought border policy gains.

Trump’s base expects him to deliver on promises of ironclad security, not watered-down compromises. If February 13 rolls around with no solid GOP plan, the grumbling in House corridors could turn into a full-blown revolt. The question is whether Republicans can turn this temporary setback into a strategic win.

For now, the party stands behind its leader, trusting his instincts to navigate this political minefield. But with DHS funding on a short leash and Democrats smelling blood, the fight for America’s borders is far from over. Conservatives are watching closely, ready to hold both sides accountable.