U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.) called on Mar. 23 for an end to the partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security, urging his colleagues in Congress to avoid using the agency as a political bargaining tool.
The ongoing shutdown has impacted vital federal agencies responsible for national security and public safety, with thousands of employees missing paychecks and essential services at risk. Boozman emphasized that the Department of Homeland Security includes over 250,000 personnel from agencies such as the Coast Guard, Transportation Security Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Secret Service, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He said these workers are “our family, friends and neighbors –– all united in their love for our country and equipped with unique skills and abilities to defend against extensive, serious threats.”
Boozman cited former Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson’s remarks: “We depend on [the Department of Homeland Security] to protect the homeland and protect the American people, and it’s being used right now as a political football. In general, we have to get out of the business of linking a major policy disagreement in Washington with funding the government.” Boozman said he agreed with Johnson on this point despite past disagreements.
He noted efforts by Arkansas airport workers in Northwest Arkansas and Little Rock who are collecting food donations for TSA employees affected by missed paychecks. Boozman also acknowledged concerns among Senate Democrats regarding CBP and ICE tactics but pointed out that recent appropriations legislation included measures such as funding body-worn cameras, de-escalation training for officers interacting with the public, clear guidance on Americans’ rights during interactions with law enforcement officers, greater transparency about spending within DHS programs funded through last year’s budget reconciliation bill.
Boozman highlighted White House offers to limit ICE operations near sensitive locations like schools or hospitals while increasing oversight at detention facilities as part of good faith negotiations intended to fully reopen DHS.
Apart from his advocacy regarding homeland security issues, Boozman is known for supporting Arkansas farmers, ranchers,
the agricultural economy,
and veterans’ care according to his official website. He grew up in Fort Smith,
graduated from Northside High School,
earned an optometry degree from Southern College of Optometry,
and co-founded a family-owned eye care business in Northwest Arkansas according to his official website.
He serves on several Senate committees including Appropriations,
Environment & Public Works,
Veterans’ Affairs,
and Rules & Administration according to his official website.
As negotiations continue,Boozman concluded: “I will continue to implore my colleagues to ensure DHS and its employees have all the resources they need to protect and support the American people.”
