How Thune overcame a Trump-sized roadblock to funding ICE Senate Majority Leader John Thune experienced significant frustration during a prolonged legislative session due to a dispute over an “anti-weaponization” fund that had already been declared defunct. President Trump’s actions, including creating the fund and later sending conflicting messages, exacerbated the situation, making it difficult for Thune to pass an immigration enforcement bill. Despite numerous legislative maneuvers and delays, the bill was eventually passed, though not without considerable difficulty and strain on Republican unity.

• Senate Majority Leader John Thune faced frustration during a lengthy vote-a-rama over an “anti-weaponization” fund.
• The fund, intended for Justice Department payouts to Jan. 6 defendants, was declared dead by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.
• Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) sought to include a provision blocking the fund in legislation funding DHS deportation operations.
• President Trump’s involvement, including creating the fund and sending mixed signals, complicated legislative efforts.
• The immigration enforcement bill faced additional hurdles, including disputes over funding for the White House East Wing ballroom and a proposed triumphal arch.
• Thune aimed for a “skinny” bill, but Trump’s actions and Cassidy’s persistent efforts created delays.
• The bill’s passage was complicated by a monthslong saga involving negotiations, a DHS shutdown, and differing Democratic and Republican priorities.
• Trump’s opposition to a go-it-alone plan and demands related to the SAVE America Act added further challenges.
• The episode highlighted a growing gulf between Senate Republicans and the White House, strained by Trump’s actions and their impact on Republican incumbents.
• An amendment to block the fund and redirect money to a DOJ fraud task force failed without Democratic support.